Innovation in Learning (IL) Grants are designed to support the evaluation and implementation of new approaches to teaching and learning using technology. These small seed grants are awarded to individuals or teams working on pedagogical and curricular projects that push the boundaries of technology-enhanced learning and have the potential for broad institutional impact. Grant awards are typically capped at $5,000, though exceptions may be made for awards over this amount under special circumstances.

Chen, Yan, Assistant Professor in Computer Science

This project seeks to create an environment to identify students struggling with programming during class exercises. Using Large Language Models with a custom interface will hopefully allow instructors to continuously evaluate students’ thought process during coding tasks. This concept would bring lab-based cognitive studies into a practical classroom application in the hopes of allowing instructors to provide personalized learning support. Personalized support and targeted assistance will lead to students’ increased confidence in programming which should also lead to better application of programming concepts.

Haghnazar, Ramtin, Assistant Professor in the School of Architecture

Integrating new teaching methods into architecture classes can support more learners and provide a deeper understanding of the various systems that all together make up a structure. Site visits are important but multiple visits with large classes at each stage of construction are difficult and potentially dangerous.  Having a VR experience to allow students to view systems individually and how they are integrated with each other in the structure would support all learners.  Using VR in addition to drawings, 3D images, and site visits will complement the teaching and learning as well as provide a more comprehensive visual understanding of the various systems in a structure.

Loeffert, Kimberly, Assistant Professor of Music Theory in the School of Performing Arts

In an innovative approach to music education, this project explores how artificial intelligence can transform music theory learning by integrating AIVA, an AI music generation tool, into the Music Theory Fundamentals course. Traditional music theory courses often rely on classical European methods that can feel distant from students' musical interests. This project bridges that gap by allowing students to create music in styles they love—folk, blues, and popular genres—using cutting-edge AI technology. The expected benefits include increased student motivation, exposure to emerging AI technologies, and a more inclusive approach to music theory education. By experimenting with generative AI, this project represents an exciting step towards more dynamic, student-centered learning that challenges traditional methods and opens new possibilities for musical exploration.

Nizamani, Sehrish Basir, Collegiate Assistant Professor in Computer Science

Our innovative platform will transform SQL learning from a solitary, frustrating experience into an engaging, interactive journey. By gamifying database skill development, the tool will create a collaborative environment where students will practice SQL commands in real time, track their progress on a shared leaderboard, and receive instant feedback. This approach will address traditional learning challenges by making technical skill acquisition more motivating and social. Students will benefit from immediate error correction and competitive learning, while instructors will gain valuable insights into student performance and learning patterns. The platform will go beyond conventional educational tools by reimagining how technical skills are developed, emphasizing peer interaction, active participation, and dynamic skill-building. Ultimately, the solution will prepare students more effectively for technical careers by making SQL practice more enjoyable, interactive, and meaningful.

Nowinski, Matt, Collegiate Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering

Recognizing that mechanical engineering fields evolve rapidly, the researchers seek to streamline the development of current instructional content by using OpenAI's ChatGPT 4.0 to generate tailored materials like homework, quizzes, and in-class activities. The project will develop guidelines for using AI in education while carefully investigating potential risks such as conceptual errors and copyright concerns. The primary objectives are to enhance student learning through more relevant instructional materials and to empower faculty by streamlining content creation. Ultimately, providing a process for creating content that is low-risk yet more efficient allows instructors to spend more time directly supporting student understanding.

Tryfona, Nektaria, Collegiate Associate Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering

This project involves dynamic experimentation with AWS settings conducted in real time, pushing the boundaries of cost optimization through experimental cloud management. Integrating AWS technologies and open-source tools in creating seamless end-to-end solutions using data pipelines during class sessions provides hands-on, real-world experience and increases student engagement, preparing them to manage cloud resources efficiently in future data engineering roles. The project could push the boundaries of optimizing cloud costs without sacrificing tangible learning at the institution.