July 14, 2025

Vibe Coding: Creating Apps with Natural Language Prompts

Have you ever had an idea for an AI app for your class, but didn’t know how to create it? That was the topic of the July 8, 2025 Center for Innovation workshop called, Vibe Coding. This workshop demonstrated how to use Google AI Studio to create apps via Natural Language Prompting. The Google AI Studio AI will write computer code for you, including the code needed to display the app in a web browser and integrate with Gemini AI.

Vibe Coding is a great way to learn about AI, as it gives you firsthand experience with the technology in ways that will help you become a better user of AI. You can also use vibe coding for rapid prototypes and limited use apps.  For example, you could create a simple calculator for a specific formula in your course or a tool that provides tutoring on a foundational skill.
The workshop provided a process for vibe coding that looked like this. First, describe the desired function. Next, create a structured prompt. This is the most crucial step and can be made more effective by giving the AI a specific Role, Goal, Task, and Process. Next, test and modify the output, making one change at a time. The final step is to launch the app for use.

Vibe coding does have limitations. AI coding can be flawed, and the tool may offer poor visual design. Common problems like coding errors or AI confusion can often be fixed by simply revising your prompt or reminding the AI to fix its own errors.

Participants at this workshop discussed ideas for apps they would like to create and had opportunities to experiment with Vibe Coding. We will be doing another workshop like this in the Fall semester. So, if you would like to explore how to create an app for your course, watch for upcoming workshops on this as well as other topics by the Center for Innovation.