Federal Project Grant Award Summary

Auburn University received a $600,000 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Division of Computing and Communication Foundations (CFDA 47.070: Computer and Information Science and Engineering) awarded October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2029, to establish a Research Experience for Teachers (RET) Site focused on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics. The site will deliver a six-week summer research program and nine-month academic year follow-up to eight middle school mathematics and science teachers annually (24 teachers total over the grant period) from rural Alabama. Teachers will engage in hands-on research projects using smart humanoid and mobile robots enabled by artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, working under faculty mentors aligned with ongoing university research initiatives.

The grant's primary deliverables include: structured education and training on AI/ML fundamentals and robotics platforms; collaborative development of project-based curricular modules in partnership with engineering and STEM education faculty; teacher leadership and pedagogical skill development through mentoring and classroom teaching practice; and implementation support during the academic year follow-up period. The RET Site is designed to equip rural middle school educators with knowledge and skills in emerging AI/ML and robotics technologies and to facilitate their development and classroom implementation of engaging, project-based learning modules that promote student interest in these critical STEM areas.