For project-based learning (PBL), start with authentic problems – Have students identify real-world challenges they care about, then use AI as a thinking partner to refine and scope their project questions.

AI as a collaborator, not a shortcut – Position AI tools as:

• Research assistants for gathering information
• Brainstorming partners for generating ideas
• Coaches for feedback and iteration
• Tools for prototyping and testing solutions

Recommended Structure

1. Problem Exploration (with AI)

• Students use AI to explore different angles of their chosen problem
• Generate questions, research existing solutions
• Identify knowledge gaps

2. Planning Phase

• Students outline their approach
• Use AI to stress-test their plan and identify potential issues
• Document what they’ll do themselves vs. with AI assistance

3. Creation Phase

• Clear delineation: students must demonstrate original thinking
• AI helps with technical execution, coding, data analysis
• Students maintain a “collaboration log” showing how they used AI

4. Reflection & Presentation

• Students explicitly discuss how AI enhanced their work
• Critically evaluate AI’s suggestions (what was helpful vs. misleading)
• Present final work with transparent AI attribution

Key Principles

• Transparency: Always document AI usage
• Critical thinking: Students must evaluate and verify AI outputs
• Skill development: Focus on skills AI can’t replace (creativity, ethical reasoning, original synthesis)
• Iterative process: Use AI for rapid prototyping and multiple iterations