Generative AI Tools Call for Proposals

Unlock New Possibilities in Education with Generative AI

The Center for Academic Innovation (CAI) at the University of Michigan invites faculty to submit proposals for innovative applications of Generative AI (GenAI) in teaching and learning. This Call for Proposals is designed to support experimentation and creativity, empowering faculty to harness the potential of GenAI to transform how students learn, collaborate, and engage with course content.

We encourage proposals that leverage the University’s U-M GPT tools or explore new GenAI platforms and products to build groundbreaking experiences that enhance student learning across a broad range of disciplines. Faculty from all areas are welcome to apply and think expansively about how GenAI can create new pathways for student success.

Deadline

Focus Areas

Faculty are encouraged to explore bold, exploratory ideas that leverage Generative AI to push the boundaries of teaching and learning. This Call for Proposals is an opportunity to experiment with GenAI in innovative ways, across disciplines, to uncover new possibilities for education. Possible areas of focus include, but are not limited to:

• Transforming Learning with Generative AI: Explore how GenAI-driven content generation can transform how students interact with material by simulating real-world scenarios, suggesting inquiry pathways, and challenging students to think critically about complex problems. Think beyond traditional instructional models to unlock new approaches to learning, content interaction, and problem-solving through Generative AI.

• Reinventing Assessments and Feedback: Tailor GenAI-powered tools to provide near real-time feedback or alternative assessment methods, including automated grading systems, peer review facilitation, or GenAI-driven reflection prompts. Proposals might explore how GenAI can support personalized learning journeys by adapting to student progress in real-time.

• GenAI as a Collaborative Partner: Investigate how Generative AI can become a co-creator with students in disciplines such as writing, art, music, engineering, and more. Projects could explore how GenAI-generated content or tools help students prototype, ideate, and iterate on creative projects or research tasks.

• Improving Equity and Access: Examine how GenAI technologies can reduce barriers to learning and promote inclusivity. Proposals might explore GenAI-based tools to create more accessible course materials, offer multilingual support, or provide tailored resources for diverse learning needs.

• Fostering Curiosity and Critical Thinking: Utilize GenAI tools or platforms to enhance student inquiry and problem-solving. GenAI could be used to simulate real-world scenarios, suggest inquiry pathways, or challenge students to think critically about complex problems and find innovative solutions.

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 welcome any proposal that uses Generative AI in ways that are imaginative, experimental, and impactful. The goal is to encourage faculty to test the limits of what GenAI can do in education and share their findings with the broader academic community. 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 $15,000 in funding for project-related expenses, including software, student support, and other necessary resources.
• In-kind support from the CAI team, including instructional design consultation, project management, and technical assistance.
• Preference for funding student hires to assist with development, ensuring students gain valuable hands-on experience with GenAI technologies.

Proposal Submission Process

Faculty are encouraged to schedule a consultation session with the CAI team to discuss their ideas and ensure alignment with the goals of this call. Proposals must include a clear description of the GenAI tools or platforms being used, the pedagogical goals of the project, and a detailed timeline and budget.

Proposal Requirements

• Eligibility: Faculty Status Policy
• Projects that incorporate new GenAI tools must ensure those tools pass the CAI third-party tool evaluation framework to confirm compliance with data protection agreements and University data policies.
• Proposals should include a detailed budget and outline the in-kind support needed 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 27, 2025
• Project Kickoff: February 2025  

Proposals are due Friday, December 13, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of projects are eligible for funding?

Eligible projects include those that explore the use of Generative AI in teaching and learning. This can include classroom applications, online course enhancements, GenAI-driven assessment tools, or the development of new learning platforms.

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?

Approved proposals may receive up to $15,000 in funding for project expenses, including software, student support, and necessary resources. In-kind support is also available from the CAI team.

Can I use GenAI tools outside of U-M GPT?

Yes, proposals that explore new GenAI platforms and tools are encouraged. However, any new tool must pass the U-M third-party tool evaluation framework to ensure compliance with University policies on data protection, security, and privacy.

What support is available during the development process?

In addition to funding, projects will receive in-kind support from the CAI team, including instructional design consultation, project management, and technical assistance. Preference is given to projects that utilize student hires as part of the development team.

How long will it take to have a third-party tool reviewed and approved?

The review process for third-party tools can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the tool, its terms of service, and the data protection requirements involved. We strongly encourage you to contact [email protected] to set up a consultation to discuss the review process and initiate it as soon as possible. This will help avoid delays in the development timeline of approved projects. Additionally, it’s advisable to have alternative tools in mind in case the primary tool is not approved within the desired timeframe.

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.