Project Based Learning Strategies for More Student Engagement and Less Unethical AI Use
Yael Teff-Seker
Thursday, September 10th, 2026
11-11:45 am
Description
This talk will discuss project-based learning (PBL) assignments for Sociology courses and how, if designed correctly, they could encourage active learning and potentially reduce unethical student AI use. In several large courses (90-200 students), I have implemented personal student projects that are integrated throughout the quarter, and focus specifically on solutions to social problems. The specific topic is chosen and led by the students, with each student choosing the topic and readings for their own papers. The project-based assignments use a multi-phase structure and in-class writing workshops, reducing student stress and uncertainty, with many safety nets, scaffolding, and "low cost" mini assignments that feed into the final paper. While this final paper is expected to be at a high level, other project-related assignments prioritize engagement over accuracy or proficiency. Among other things, I will discuss how this assignment and its structure are intended to reduce stress, anxiety, uncertainty, or alienation, all factors that could increase unethical AI use.
Link to the video [video.ucdavis.edu]
Access the Zoom chat (UC Davis login required).
Selected resources shared in the Zoom chat:
- the University of Sydney's 2-lane approach to assessment in the age of AI
- MIT's report on AI in teaching and learning
About the Presenter
Dr. Yael Teff-Seker is a lecturer and researcher at the Department of Sociology, UC Davis. She has a Ph.D. in Conflict Studies. Her teaching focuses on social conflict and cooperation, environmental policy and ethics, gender, critical theories, education, and social psychology. Before being a lecturer at UC Davis Sociology (and before that, a visiting professor at the Department of Religious Studies between 2021-2023. Previously, Dr. Teff-Seker was a post-doctoral fellow at the Technion and Haifa University, and a fellow at the Arava Institute, focusing on social aspects of environmental cooperation, policy and planning. Her research and publications focus on stakeholder engagement, marine conservation, sustainable development, environmental peacebuilding, science diplomacy, and cultural ecosystem services, as well as peace education and environmental education.
