Proposals
The College of Arts and Sciences welcomes proposals that address the ethical and effective use of AI in the classroom and in our culture more broadly. Proposed projects may include, but are not limited to, creation of new courses or modification of current courses that address benefits and limitations of AI technologies, consider the impact of AI on society and work in the future, or incorporate AI tools into existing pedagogies. Proposals might also include support for guest speakers or other co-curricular activities. Total award amounts are not to exceed $20K and may include, but are not limited to, faculty salary (summer), graduate student salary, and technical support. Course implementation would ideally occur in Spring 2024 and the following 2024-2025 academic year.
- Full-time FTE faculty and staff in any CAS unit (department, school, program, center, or institute) are invited to submit proposals. All awards will be made on a competitive basis.
- Projects may be sponsored by a single CAS faculty or staff member, or by a group.
- Multiple proposals may be submitted by an individual or group; however, each individual or group may only receive one award.
- Proposals must be endorsed/approved by the unit chair or director. Note that projects that cross multiple units should be endorsed by all related chairs and directors.
- Total awards will not exceed $20,000.
- Funds will be awarded for one year, with a start date of January 1, 2024.
- Funds may be used for course buyouts, summer salary supplements, student stipends, and expenses to bring guests to campus if the need is clearly justified.
- Courses modified or created through an awarded project must be approved through college and university processes as well as offered and taught at least once within 2 years from the award date.
- Recipients will be required to submit a 1-2 page report at the end of the award period summarizing the project, its accomplishments and challenges, and next steps for continuing to advance the project goals.
The following materials should be submitted using the online form.
- Project Proposal: Project proposals should be no more than four pages, in PDF format, and include:
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- A brief description of the proposed project and its goals;
- A list of individuals who will contribute and their roles;
- A timeline of activities and deliverables; and
- A rationale describing how the project meets fund priorities.
- Project Budget: An itemized budget using the McCausland Innovation Fund Budget Template is required. Budgets should include fringe when personnel are involved, with justification detailing how the funds will be spent. Budgets including proposed course buyouts must comply with the CAS Course Buyout Policy [pdf]. Budgets should also list resources sought or acquired from other sources. Approved technology purchases and other supplies are the property of the College of Arts and Sciences. Applicants should contact their unit CAS Budget contact with any questions about budget development or allowable expenses. Please see the following examples of a completed Budget Justification and Sample Budget for guidance.
- Project Lead and Faculty Partner CVs: A two-page curriculum vitae or resume in PDF format for each project lead and faculty partner.
The Associate Deans comprise the selection committee, chaired by the Dean.