Using image similarity to analyze coursework

Frode Eika Sandnes (2026). Applying Image Similarity Analysis to Coursework in Visual Design Education. Thinking Skills and Creativity 61 (2026) 102169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tsc.2026.102169

This is the companion resource for the article mentioned above. It contains everything you need to conduct similar experiments as described in the paper or use it in your own teaching.

This includes my tool for extracting the text and images from a large set of PDF files (the coursework):

PDF Conversion Tool

The results are stored in JSON files to facilitate processing. I have also prepared a live demo that allows you to analyze images “out of the box”:

Live Analysis Tool

The analyses are very rudimentary. You may need to tailor the setup to fit your specific needs. Finally, I have provided the source code for the experiment which you can adapt for your own purpose.

Download Source Code
GDPR Compliance: Note that all the code runs locally in the browser. To adhere to GDPR, you need to use a computer endorsed by your institution if you are to process student coursework, which usually is classified as “yellow data” (restricted).