Photo of Kaoru Seki

Kaoru Seki

HCC Master's Student/Graduate Research Assistant

Biography

I am a graduate student in Human-Centered Computing at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, building on my undergraduate degree in Business Technology Administration from UMBC. My academic journey began with a strong interest in the intersection of business and technology, which grew into a passion for human-centered research and design.

My master’s thesis research explores the intersection of AI and pedagogy, focusing on how students use AI in design classrooms and co-creating classroom AI policies that reflect their needs. Through this work, I have uncovered unique challenges and opportunities for non-native English speakers, which resonate with my own experiences.

As a non-native speaker, I am particularly interested in how language technologies—currently driven by AI—can be designed to support equitable participation across languages and cultures, particularly for non-native speakers navigating academic and daily life in different countries. My broader goal is to investigate how ethical, accessible technologies can enhance learning, communication, and equitable participation across diverse contexts.

I bring a strong foundation in UX research and participatory design with experience spanning academic research, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and user-centered design. I am passionate about bridging technical innovation with real-world needs through ethical and accessible design practices.

Research Interests

  • Human-centered AI and ethical technology design
  • Accessibility and inclusion in multilingual and cross-cultural contexts
  • Language technologies that support equitable participation for non-native speakers
  • I am open to explore new areas, too!

Education

Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing (Sept. 2024–Dec. 2025)

University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)

Thesis: Student-Driven Recommendations on AI Policy In a Design Classroom

Bachelor of Arts in Business Technology Administration (Jun. 2021–May. 2024)

University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)

Accelerated program in BA in BTA and MS in HCC

Awards, Honors, and Certification

  • NSF I-Corps Fellowship Team Fellow - Rutgers University, Oct.-Dec. 2025
  • Certified Associate Project Management (CAPM) - Project Management Institute (PMI), Jan. 2025
  • 2nd Place, Social Impact Track - Idea & Innovation Challenge, UMBC, Nov. 2024
  • Magna Cum Laude - UMBC, May. 2024
  • Outstanding Senior Award in Information Systems Department - May. 2024
  • Dean's List - UMBC
  • President's List - UMBC