Future of Learning: AI Grant

The FLAG Initiative is currently on hold and not accepting applications.

Please check back for updates on the status of this funding program.

 

 
 
The Future of Learning: AI Grant (FLAG) initiative invites Boston University faculty and graduate teaching fellows to experiment with artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to improve the BU student experience.

Generative AI, as currently understood, can generate novel content by utilizing existing text, audio files, or images to produce output that can support many different kinds of tasks. For example, ChatGPT can write essays and code; DALL-E can create images and art; while other forms of generative AI can produce recipes, music, and videos. Accordingly, this novel capacity has the potential to change how we think, create, teach, and learn. These tools may also change our perspective on what is important to learn. 

The FLAG initiative serves as a springboard for the exploration, design, and implementation of new or improved pedagogical approaches using generative AI in courses and educational programs that support learning for BU students.

Details 

The following are the key elements of the program:

  • Funding up to $5000 that may be used for technology licenses, hourly wages for students to assist with implementation or assessment of the project, or other associated costs. 
  • Opportunity to participate in an online generative AI community of practice (via Microsoft Teams) 
  • Opportunity to present and discuss the experience and outcomes of the grant implementation at one or more events (e.g., CTL lightning talk) and/ or through DL&I communication channels (e.g., authoring a blog post)

    Eligibility

    Individual Boston University faculty and graduate teaching fellows may apply for a FLAG.

    Project Timeline

    FLAG Initiative proposals are accepted monthly and reviewed by the leads of the three DL&I units – Center for Teaching & Learning; Education Technology group; and the Shipley Center. Expected response time for submissions is two weeks. This grant will follow the same schedule as our ACT grants.

    Future of Learning: AI Grant Project Timeline. Consultation Discuss project ideas, technology, and funding. Apply Apply for a FLAG Proposals are accepted monthly Expected response: two weeks. CONFIRMATION & FUNDING FLAG funds will be disbursed to your BU department for management. Experiment Let the experimentation begin! Manage and collect data. Evaluate Evaluate program success Submit simplified project completion report.

    Reporting

    Grant recipients will be asked to complete a brief project completion report.

    Outcomes

    Successful FLAG initiative experiments that show a potential to improve teaching and learning broadly across curricula or departments may lead to Shipley Center incubated pilot projects. These pilot projects have lasting impact on how we do things at BU and position our university in the forefront of educational innovation.

    Questions? Connect with the Shipley Center at shipdli@bu.edu