The world of app development can be both exciting and daunting for young developers. As students learn to create small functions and achieve initial success, they may find it challenging to develop more complex apps. In this blog post, we will explore how ChatGPT, a language model by OpenAI, and Mid Journey, a graphic design service, can assist students in SwiftUI app development by bridging the gap between their ideas and fully functioning apps.
Many students have brilliant ideas for apps but often struggle with translating those ideas into a working product. Developing a complex app requires not only programming skills but also expertise in user interface and user experience design. Furthermore, students may face a steep learning curve as they transition from small code challanges to more intricate coding.
ChatGPT, an AI language model, can help bridge this gap by generating working code based on students’ descriptions of their app ideas. By specifying the structure and functionalities of the app, students can obtain code that can be easily copied, pasted, and tested in Xcode. If the code doesn’t work as planned or doesn’t look right, students can ask ChatGPT to modify the code until they are satisfied. This iterative process enables students to achieve their desired app functionalities and design.
Using AI-generated code raises questions about whether this approach teaches students to code or is considered cheating. According to learning theory, scaffolding is an essential element in helping students build upon their existing knowledge and skills (Vygotsky, 1978; Wood, Bruner, & Ross, 1976). ChatGPT acts as a scaffold for students, allowing them to create new apps from scratch and gradually develop their coding abilities. Moreover, integrating AI assistance in education aligns with the increasing adoption of AI in industries, such as Ubisoft, where AI is viewed as an assistant for human workers. This approach not only helps students learn to code but also prepares them for future workplace environments.
Another way to use ChatGPT is to help students identify and understand bugs in their code. By copying and pasting blocks of code into ChatGPT, students can receive explanations of error messages and suggestions for fixing their code. This use of AI assistance mirrors industry-standard practices and enables students to develop fully functioning SwiftUI apps within the constraints of compressed coding courses.
Developing an app also involves creating visually appealing graphics and user interfaces. Many students may not have the necessary skills or resources to create high-quality graphics themselves. Mid Journey can assist in this process by generating professional-quality graphics for app icons, logos, and main screen experiences, making it possible for students to focus on other aspects of app development.
The combination of ChatGPT and Mid Journey provides a valuable support system for students learning SwiftUI app development. These tools help them overcome the initial hurdles of complex app creation, enabling them to gain experience in designing new products and improving their coding abilities. By leveraging these AI-assisted tools, students can not only achieve success in app development but also develop the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Coming next…a simple case study based upon this idea.
