Grants for Curriculum Enrichment

“The students and I both agree that the field trip [to the National Museum of the American Indian] significantly enriched the course, facilitating a culminating experience within the dynamics of the semester, and provided a venue for the students to learn from each other and extend their learning environment beyond the classroom to Washington, DC.”

–Shiloh Krupar, CULP (SFS): “Theorizing Culture and Politics”

Georgetown Learning Initiative (GLI) grants for curriculum enrichment support class-related activities that strengthen the intellectual climate around the undergraduate curriculum. They are intended to encourage interaction among undergraduates, graduate students, faculty, and other disciplinary experts, and to help faculty and students to take advantage of the resources of the larger community. Events funded by these grants could include museum visits, musical and theatrical performances, lectures, cultural dinners, and many other sorts of activities designed to foster dialogue inside and outside the classroom. Funding is limited to $500 per event.

The “Call to Action: Curriculum and Learning at Georgetown” asked us to commit to enhancing the culture of undergraduate learning through concerted efforts to engage all students. Curriculum enrichment grants provide the means for faculty to help students link their academic learning to larger intellectual conversations.

“The Cultural Enrichment activity [discussion of Southeast Asian culture over dumplings and desserts] has positively complemented and supplemented the students’ growing knowledge of Southeast Asia, by widening their understanding beyond the history, politics, and international relations of the region. Yet another benefit has been the opportunity for interaction and dialogue between my students in a relaxed and informal setting. The small groups allowed for more discussion between the students and also between them and me.”

–Pamela Sodhy, History: “U.S.–Southeast Asian Relations in the Post-9/11 World”

All full-time and part-time faculty are eligible to apply for curriculum enrichment grants of up to $500. To apply for a curriculum enrichment grant, send an email to John Rakestraw that includes a brief description of the proposed activity or event, an account of how you think this activity or event will deepen the intellectual engagement of students enrolled in your class, and a simple budget indicating the total amount requested and how the money will be spent. If you're unsure whether a particular event or activity might be funded, feel free to contact John Rakestraw with your questions.

The application deadline for Fall 2009 funding has passed. To be considered for funding during Spring 2010, please apply by February 15, 2010.