My name is Chinat Yu. I am a master's student at Stanford's Learning, Design, and Technology program. I am interested in exploring the intersection between generative AI, education, and productivity with human-centered design.
I have previously spoken at multiple conferences including the AIxEducation conference, and also at the Johns Hopkins DELTA teacher symposium, sharing students' perspectives on how AI impacts the future of education. I have also previously worked as an AI researcher intern at Microsoft and having a CS background.
I have also worked on a number of ed tech start ups as well, including Quest2learn. (q2l.app) which designs AR virtual science labs, and have been part of the MS start up hub program. I created a digital twin clone of myself which you can see at (chinatai.app)
Hackathon Horizons is about reimagining hackathons as more than just competitions. It’s about creating environments where participants can learn, grow, and connect in ways that are meaningful and impactful.
My capstone project, Hackathon Horizons, explores the future potential of hackathons as a bridge between college education and industry needs. I’ve always believed that hackathons are more than just coding marathons; they are powerful platforms for fostering self-regulated learning and developing diverse skill sets.
Through this project, I aim to enhance the hackathon experience by introducing several key innovations:
Practical Experience & Skill Development: Hackathons provide an invaluable opportunity for participants to gain hands-on experience, showcase their projects, and identify their strengths and weaknesses. My goal is to amplify this by integrating more structured feedback and reflective practices.
Digital Passports: I’m working on creating personalized digital passports that track participants’ skills, experiences, and progress throughout the hackathon. These passports will serve as a tool for both self-assessment and external validation, helping participants and organizers identify areas of improvement and celebrate achievements.
Inclusive Matching Systems: One of the challenges in hackathons is forming diverse and effective teams. I’m developing a personalized matching system that connects participants based on their skills, experience, and interests. This system aims to make hackathons more inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their background.
Gamification: To engage and motivate beginners, I’m incorporating gamification into the initial skills assessments. By making the learning process more interactive and fun, I hope to attract a broader range of participants and lower the barriers to entry.