Launching the 2022 cycle of Teaching Innovation Grants

The Morgan Teaching and Learning Center, Educational Development Council (EDC), the Academic Technology Center (ATC), and Undergraduate Studies are delighted to announce internal grant opportunities for 2022 aimed at seeding innovations in undergraduate and graduate education that meet identifiable needs at WPI. Up to $150,000 will be distributed across three types of grants: Professional Learning Communities (PLCs - same as FLCs but officially welcoming staff educators), Independent Projects, and Summer Sandbox grants. The Teaching Innovation Grants webpage includes call for proposals, full details and applications for all types of grants, and a listing of grants awarded last year. 

Proposals in any area are welcome. Timely topics include but are not limited to: issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the curriculum and teaching practices; fostering mental health and holistic well-being in academic contexts; use of XR (extended reality) to address teaching and learning challenges in innovative ways; online experiential and project-based learning; interdisciplinary education initiatives; and innovative graduate education. 

These grants DO acknowledge the (paid) time necessary for innovative, creative work. For those who can’t fathom a new initiative right now, perhaps this opportunity can percolate until you see a window. Proposals will be due February 1. 

Save the date for a mixer: Faculty and staff are invited to a social on Wednesday, December 1 in the range of 3:30-5pm. Details and modality will be announced at a later date. Representatives of the Morgan Center and Undergraduate Studies will provide an overview of the grant opportunities and answer questions, and we’ll facilitate ideation and connections to others with similar interests.