Bio Sketchbook: An AI-assisted Sketching Partner for Children's Biodiversity Observational Learning

Abstract

Observational sketching is a common method to facilitate repeated observations that increase individual knowledge and awareness of biodiversity. However, this method presents a high barrier of entry for some novices, particularly young children. In this paper, we introduce Bio Sketchbook, a novice AI-assisted sketching partner to help children draw from observation and guide them to repeatedly observe different biological features. We describe our design process and goals, the interaction design of Bio Sketchbook, and results from a preliminary user study with six children. Our findings reveal Bio Sketchbook as a promising AI partner to encourage children to sketch from observation and gain biodiversity science education.