Abstract

The growing interest to incorporate generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) image tools into creative workflows has raised concerns about the social and ethical implications it may have on Japan’s creative industries. This exploratory study is the first to discuss what oversights may emerge on such issues from prospective Japanese generative AI researchers- computer science (CS) graduate students studying in Japan. From June 2023 to August 2023, nine CS graduate students studying in Tokyo were interviewed to understand how CS graduate students in Japan discuss GenAI image tools’ 1) technical aspects, 2) social and ethical aspects, and 3) cultures in AI research, as well as three experts to investigate the 4) legal, social, and cultural impacts of using GenAI image tools for creative work in Japan. The results indicate that CS graduate students do discuss various ethical and social aspects with GenAI image tools, but many neglected to see how widespread industry usage in Japan has the ability to further marginalize artists in creative workplaces and jeopardize critical aspects of workplace pedagogy in creative industries. This study provides insight into the mindsets of prospective GenAI researchers in Japan and indicates areas of future work that can better prepare them as future knowledge holders and innovators in the field. AI researchers from Canada, Japan, and around the world are encouraged to adopt participatory AI design practices to involve stakeholders throughout the planning, design, and evaluation processes of GenAI image research so they respond to the needs, values, and concerns of artists and creative professionals.