Apple Vision Pro XR Application Call for Proposals

Transform the Future of Teaching and Learning with the Apple Vision Pro

Join the Center for Academic Innovation (CAI) as we work to advance learning and innovative pedagogies  through engagement with Extended Reality (XR) technologies at the University of Michigan. 

We are excited to announce a Call for Proposals for faculty interested in pioneering innovative applications of Apple Vision Pro to transform higher education. This initiative is designed to explore how this advanced XR technology can elevate teaching and learning in impactful ways across various disciplines.

We encourage faculty partners to submit visionary proposals that explore new pedagogical strategies and applications using the Apple Vision Pro. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the advancement of education through immersive experiences that leverage XR technology.

Review selected previously funded XR projects.

Deadline

Focus Area(s)

We welcome all innovative ideas that utilize the Apple Vision Pro to significantly enhance teaching and learning across a variety of educational contexts. Possible applications include, but are not limited to:

• Classroom Innovation: Create immersive and interactive classroom environments that deepen student engagement. Consider applications that support virtual lab simulations, immersive field experiences, or augmented reality (AR) enhancements to traditional lectures. For example, students could experience historical events firsthand, manipulate virtual 3D models in science and engineering classes, or engage in real-time collaboration with virtual elements in design and arts courses.

• Training and Professional Development: Develop XR applications to facilitate real-world training scenarios, either for use in professional degree programs or continuing education. This could include medical simulations, business case studies, or technical training environments that leverage the immersive capabilities of the Apple Vision Pro to simulate complex, real-world challenges, ensuring learners gain hands-on experience in a safe, controlled space.

• Student Skill Development: Focus on applications that enhance skill-building for students, particularly in emerging fields such as data science, artificial intelligence, healthcare, and more. The Apple Vision Pro can offer a unique platform for developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills through immersive group projects, scenario-based learning, and interactive role-playing exercises.

• Expansion of Online Degree Offerings: Leverage XR to expand and enhance online degree programs, providing students with immersive and engaging learning environments no matter where they are located. This could include virtual classrooms, interactive office hours, group collaboration spaces, or advanced simulations that bring complex concepts to life. By integrating the Apple Vision Pro, faculty can push the boundaries of online education, creating experiences that rival or surpass in-person learning.

Out of Scope

• Projects intended for use in outside consulting practices or with learners who are not U-M students or affiliated with U-M.
• Projects focused solely on applications or training for students or faculty at other institutions.

We encourage proposals that explore new ways to use XR to transform both in-person and online learning and align with the University’s mission to lead innovation in education. Faculty are encouraged to think broadly and creatively about how XR can reimagine the learning experience and equip students with the skills they need for the future. Faculty should ensure that their proposals prioritize U-M learners and contribute to the development of innovative educational practices that benefit the U-M community.

Funding and Support

Approved proposals will receive funding and support from the center that includes:

• Up to $25,000 in funding for project expenses, including hardware, software, student support, and other related needs.
• In-kind support from the CAI team, which includes XR development, instructional design consultation, project management, and media production services.
• Opportunity to work with a dedicated project team to refine and develop your project idea.

We may fund one or two projects, depending on the quality and scope of submissions.

Proposal Submission Process

We are offering consultations to discuss proposal ideas and provide feedback prior to proposal submission. Faculty are encouraged to schedule a consultation session with the CAI team to explore possibilities, clarify the proposal process, and align ideas with the goals of this call.

Proposal Requirements

• Eligibility: Faculty Status Policy
• Collaborative proposals that span multiple disciplines or schools are encouraged.
• All proposals should outline the pedagogical goals, the envisioned use of the Apple Vision Pro, and a detailed budget and timeline for development.
• All Proposals should include a detailed budget for any equipment or students support needed along with what in-kind support required from CAI

Proposal Submission Consultation

Before submitting a proposal, please contact [email protected] to set up a consultation.

Timeline

• Call for Proposal Opens: September 25, 2024
• Consultation appointments: October 1, 2024 to November 29, 2024
• Proposal deadline: Friday December 13, 2024
• Decisions announced: Friday January 17, 2025
• Project Kickoffs: February 2025  

Proposals are due Friday, December 13, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to submit a proposal?

All proposals must be submitted by current University of Michigan faculty. We encourage proposals from individual faculty members or collaborative groups across disciplines or schools. Faculty of all experience levels with XR technologies are welcome to apply, as this call is an opportunity for both experienced and first-time users to explore the Apple Vision Pro.

What types of projects are out of scope?

Projects intended for personal consulting practices, external organizations, or non-U-M students are not eligible for funding. Proposals should prioritize the development of tools or applications that directly benefit U-M students and learners.

How much funding is available for each project?

Each approved project may receive up to $25,000 in funding. This funding can be used for project expenses such as hardware, software, student support, and other related needs. Depending on the quality of the submissions, we may choose to fund one or two projects. Additional in-kind support, including XR development, instructional design, project management, and media production, will also be provided by the Center for Academic Innovation.

Do I need experience with Apple Vision Pro or XR technologies to apply?

No prior experience with Apple Vision Pro or XR technologies is required to submit a proposal. We encourage faculty with new or evolving ideas to take advantage of this opportunity to explore the potential of these tools. The Center for Academic Innovation will provide guidance and technical support throughout the project’s development.

Can I propose to adapt an existing application or idea?

Yes, proposals can be for the development of a completely new application or for the adaptation of an existing platform to integrate Apple Vision Pro technology. We welcome innovative approaches in both categories and encourage you to think creatively about how this emerging technology can expand or enhance current pedagogical tools and strategies.

How long will I have to develop the project if my proposal is approved?

Project timelines will vary depending on the scope of the proposal. However, we anticipate that most projects will commence in January 2025 and aim for an initial implementation or pilot phase by Winter or Fall 2026. The timeline should be clearly outlined in your proposal and should reflect realistic goals, taking into account available resources and any potential challenges.

How long does it take to develop an Apple Vision Pro application?

The development timeline for an Apple Vision Pro application can vary based on the complexity and scope of the project. However, most projects will follow a 12-18 month development cycle. This includes stages such as concept development, design, prototyping, testing, and deployment.

During this period, faculty will collaborate with the Center for Academic Innovation, utilizing in-kind support such as XR development, instructional design, and project management. The goal is to ensure a high-quality application is ready for initial use or piloting by Fall 2025. Faculty should account for this timeline when planning their proposal and budget.

Can I propose a project for another institution or outside work?

No, proposals should focus on U-M students and learners. Projects aimed at other institutions or personal consulting practices will not be considered. Faculty should ensure their proposals contribute to the advancement of education within the University of Michigan community.