Sean Corp, Communications Lead
The Center for Academic Innovation is inviting proposals from University of Michigan faculty based on the Ann Arbor campus to engage in projects in three areas aligned with the center’s mission. Proposals currently being accepted are focused on developing online and hybrid degree programs, adopting educational technology, and conducting educational research.
The center provides financial and in-kind support drawn from the university’s Academic Innovation Fund to help University of Michigan faculty and staff develop innovative projects. Each call for proposal has project priorities, submission requirements, and deadlines for final proposals.
Staff at the center are also available to consult on potential projects, offering consultation services by appointment or through open office hours. Learn more about each open call below, and additional details about submission guidelines, procedures, and consultation with the center are available on the center’s Academic Innovation Fund page.
Online & Hybrid Degree Programs
Online and hybrid degree portfolios, degrees supported by open online courses, series, and certificates, allow academic units to attract and meet student and learner needs effectively. Priority will be given to proposals that explore and validate potential and early-stage online degree program portfolio concepts. The submission deadline is April 5.
Educational Technology
The center is seeking proposals to adopt existing educational technologies that enable innovative pedagogy, skill development, and personalization at scale. Tools available for adoption funds and support include GradeCraft, a learning management system that supports gameful instruction; Lettersmith, a writing support tool that provides structured guidance and encourages metacognition; Problem Roulette, a study tool encouraging practice with real problems from previous exams; and Tandem, a tool that helps instructors and teams manage teamwork.
The submission deadline is May 17. The center will hold an Educational Technology Showcase on Feb. 21 from 3-5:30 p.m. that is open to faculty and staff to learn about tools, discuss proposal ideas, and consult with center staff.
Educational Research
Faculty, students, and staff are invited to apply for research grants, with the following research areas receiving prioritization: generative AI technologies in postsecondary teaching; use of technology to advance student success; accessibility, impact and/or efficacy of XR-enhanced learning experiences; open learning experiences and their ability to support undergraduate student success. The submission deadline is March 15.
