IdeaLab Proposals

This academic year -- supported by the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations -- IdeaLab will be trying out a different approach to encourage faculty to explore “out-of-the-box” curriculum and pedagogical practices.

We are inviting interested individuals to apply for funds to support course development for Spring 2019. Recognizing that our course schedules for the Spring are already established, this year we are soliciting a different type of proposal:

Successful applicants will propose an innovative and substantial classroom “making” experience to be implemented as part of existing courses in Spring 2019. For these innovative “making” experiences we would like to see both students and faculty engaging with the “making” process, and meaningful course time spent on the “making” process. The IdeaLab will support these projects by providing space in the Hub, tools and assistance from the Hub manager and Hubster student workers.  The Hub makerspace is currently equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, vinyl cutters, Arduino and raspberry pi.

To support the integration of “making” into traditional courses, funded courses will receive a $1,000 faculty stipend and $1,000 for the acquisition of equipment and supplies; at the end of the semester, the equipment and remaining supplies will be incorporated into the HUB, so that future courses can make use of the equipment. For the purposes of this proposal, we construe “making” in a broad sense -- successful proposals will explain how the project involves “making” (broadly construed) and how the type of making proposed would not otherwise be part of the course. We will give slight preference to proposals that work with the Hub.

Here are the details for applying and participation:

1. Proposals should include applicant’s name and department.
2. Proposals should provide the course number and title for the existing course, and a description of the “making” experience and how it will contribute to the course. While a formal budget is not required, a clear explanation of the materials/equipment that will be acquired, along with a sense of cost, is requested (to ensure the feasibility of the project).
3. If selected, you need to be able to teach the “making” experience in the Spring of  2019 so make sure that you have consulted with your department chair.

We see those awarded funding for course development as leaders who are stepping up to be on the vanguard of creative course development. As such, successful applicants will be expected to participate in the innovative pedagogy discussions that will be held spring semester through the IdeaLab.

Proposals should be submitted to Sarah Sweeney by November 5th.  While Sarah is the point of contact here, any one of the individuals listed below would be more than happy to field questions you may have about this.

We look forward to reading your proposal!

Sincerely,

IdeaLab Steering Committee

Sarah Sweeney - Co PI
Kim Frederick - Co PI
Marta Brunner
Ian Berry
Sonya Chung
Jenny Huangfu Day
Bill Duffy
Cathy Hill
Darren Prodger
Jess Sullivan