Teachers may worry that AI could allow students to bypass effort and learning, but when integrated thoughtfully, it can enhance education. By including AI in project-based learning and the inquiry process, curriculum can become hands-on, interactive, and focused on critical thinking. These are areas where AI alone falls short. This approach encourages students to dive deeper into problems, collaborate, and apply their knowledge in ways that AI simply can’t replicate, fostering a more engaging and meaningful learning experience.
In recent articles, I explored ways to design coding curriculum that encourages students to think independently. While AI tools can offer support, students are still expected to tackle tasks that require critical thinking, personal reflection, original input, and the development of key tech skills.
Below are examples of TechnoKids project-based digital literacy courses that feature hands-on activities, ones that go beyond what AI tools can do for students.
1. Design an Environmental Infographic
In TechnoEarth, students become environmental stewards. They design an interactive infographic on a real-world issue. Using a mix of multi-disciplinary tools, they explore open-ended inquiry questions, make personal connections, and examine solutions to authentic problems – key elements of project-based learning.
Infographic Creation Demands Independent Thinking
Throughout the TechnoEarth course, activities are structured to limit AI reliance while promoting essential skills:
- Use Multiple Apps – Students make creative choices across tools like Google Docs, Slides, Sheets, and My Maps, requiring decision-making skills.
- Compose Concise Paraphrasing – While AI tools like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot can help locate information, students must summarize it clearly and briefly to fit the tight space of an infographic. This requires them to understand the content deeply and rewrite it in their own words.
- Check Source Reliability – To complete their research, students must judge whether a source is trustworthy – a skill AI can’t fully replicate for them. They learn to apply critical thinking by checking for reliability, credibility, and accuracy.
- Recognize Bias – Students analyze how different groups might view the same environmental issue. Exploring stakeholder perspectives encourages reflection and deeper analysis beyond surface-level facts.
- Use Planners & Checklists – Managing their own workflow using organizational tools builds accountability and self-direction.
- Create a Persuasive Call to Action – Inspiring others requires students to reflect on and develop emotional insight, voice, and purpose.
2. Give a Class Presentation
Another strategy that combines project-based learning with digital literacy and life skills is to have students present their findings to the class or a group. AI tools can support research or help polish slides, but they can’t replace the personal growth that comes from speaking clearly, thinking on your feet, and engaging with a live audience.
After completing an inquiry, the process of sharing the results has multiple benefits:
- Students build self-esteem and communication skills.
- Teachers can assess the students’ understanding.
- Peers practice active listening as they are encouraged to question and comment.
Many TechnoKids Projects Integrate Presentations
In TechnoPresenter students choose an inquiry topic of personal interest and, build a slide show with speaker notes. They learn explicitly how to master public speaking through body language skits, small group rehearsals, and peer feedback. When ready, they share their work with their peers.
In TechnoBot AI students program prototypes of a drone delivery system, robot pickup service, and self-driving tour bus. To add real world relevance, they pitch their idea to classmates acting as potential investors. They must explain their ideas clearly and persuade the audience.
In TechnoQuestionnaire students investigate an issue and survey popular opinion. They summarize their findings in a presentation to a jury of their peers, providing factual evidence to support their conclusions.
In each case, AI can be a helpful tool. But the real learning comes from thinking critically, communicating clearly, and connecting with others.
3. Collaborate to Prepare a Convincing Online Debate
In TechnoDebate, students gain far more than just persuasive writing skills; they engage in real teamwork and critical thinking. Working with a partner to prepare both sides of a digital debate, they declare a position, research supporting facts, and craft a thoughtful rebuttal.
While AI tools can help with research and drafting a persuasive tone, the true value comes from the essential skills students develop through collaboration and discussion, including:
- building a balanced and informed argument on real-world issues
- applying logical reasoning and clear communication
- practicing teamwork and respectful dialogue
- recognizing, accepting, and appreciating different perspectives
- evaluate, cross-examine, question, and comment effectively in a public debate platform
These are life-ready skills, formed through active participation and human connection, not automation.
AI in Project-Based Learning
Project-based learning supported by AI can enhance content creation, but it’s hands-on strategies like creating an infographics, giving a class presentation, and working with a partner to prepare a debate that truly build the communication, critical thinking skills, and collaboration students need for success.