Kaoru Seki

HCI Researcher
Photo of Kaoru Seki

Kaoru Seki

Research Associate,
Human-Centered Computing
University of Maryland, Baltimore County

My name is Kaoru, and I am a Research Associate in Human-Centered Computing at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), in the Information Systems Department.

My work focuses on human-centered AI, the future of work, and community-engaged research—with a particular goal of supporting non-native English speakers in navigating language challenges and thriving while living in a different country.

This fall, I will begin my Ph.D. in Computer Science, specializing in Human-Centered Computing, at the University of Cambridge.

Projects

Student-Driven AI Policy

Student-Driven AI Policy

I investigate how HCC students use generative AI in design education and collaborate with them to develop student-authored AI policies that align with their needs and learning experiences.

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Sensemaking in Immersive Analytics Systems

Sensemaking in Immersive Analytics Systems

I evaluate a VR-based immersive analytics system to understand how multimodal data visualizations support collaborative, inquiry-based learning and user sensemaking in educational contexts.

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CiviConnect

CiviConnect

I design solar-powered, self-healing mesh Wi-Fi to underserved communities, providing affordable, sustainable internet access from rural villages to refugee camps and bridging the digital divide.

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Recent Updates

April 17th
I presented my research, "Participatory, not Punitive: Student-Driven AI Policy Recommendations in a Design Classroom" at the ACM CHI 2026 conference in Barcelona, Spain.
April 15th
I'm thrilled to announce that I have accepted an offer to pursue a PhD in Computer Science, specializing in Human-Centered Computing, at University of Cambridge.