Conference Agenda

Generative Design (GD) is becoming an increasingly relevant topic in engineering practice, combining optimization algorithms, simulation tools, and AI-assisted approaches to generate design solutions that satisfy predefined requirements. Despite its growing industrial importance and its close connection with Additive Manufacturing (AM) within the Industry 4.0 framework, its adoption in engineering education is still limited and only partially documented, particularly in mechanical and industrial engineering programs. This paper presents a narrative review of the current state of GD education. A Scopus search initially identified 126 publications, which were progressively screened to obtain 12 contributions directly addressing educational applications of GD in engineering. The review is complemented by two teaching experiences developed at Italian universities. At the University of Udine, GD is introduced as a module within a bachelor’s course on Technical Drawing and CAD. At the University of Naples Federico II, a dedicated master’s course focuses on Bio-Inspired Generative Design for Additive Manufacturing. Drawing on both the literature and these educational experiences, the paper proposes a preliminary two-level framework for the integration of GD into engineering curricula. The framework distinguishes between an introductory approach aimed at raising awareness of GD concepts at the undergraduate level and a more specialized approach focused on advanced design and optimization methods at the graduate level.