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 UCGIS I-GUIDE Community Champions, 2023-24

Our Call for Proposals is now open! 

As part of this unique research experience, Community Champions support the expansion of I-GUIDE topics and concepts into the broader geospatial and convergence science community.  Each Champion proposes to work on a small-scale project of their own design that aligns with the annual theme and through their work are able to participate directly with I-GUIDE's activities, outreach initiatives, and real-world impacts. To recognize the valuable contributions and dedicated involvement of the Community Champions, the program offers an honorarium of $3,000 for each cohort member.

 

2023-2024 Community Champions Theme

This year, the Community Champions will contribute to refining, enhancing, and applying the I-GUIDE Convergence Curriculum for Geospatial Data Science. 

The Convergence Curriculum for Geospatial Data Science is a flexible and integrative educational framework designed to help students, scholars, and professionals tackle complex real-world problems. It focuses on building foundational knowledge through five key threads: ethics, analytics, geospatial concepts, computing, and visualization.

As individuals progress through the curriculum, they integrate skills and knowledge through culminating in a convergence of competencies and domain expertise. The curriculum offers various depth levels, allowing customization for different learning needs, and is continuously refined based on community feedback and evaluation, with new content releases planned for 2023.

Call for Proposals

We invite proposals from mid- to late-career scholars and educators with experience with diverse convergent issues within geospatial data science.  We welcome diverse perspectives from individuals, groups, and institutions, aiming to enhance our Convergence Curriculum program.  The Community Champions will play a crucial role in refining our curriculum materials, applying innovative solutions and supporting the improvement of the Convergence Curriculum program..  More broadly, your contributions will support the advancement of geospatial data science education and help ensure its continued effectiveness. Together, we  can shape the future of geospatial data education  and empower the next generation of scientists.

To be considered for this opportunity, complete a brief online application that will be reviewed by the I-GUIDE and UCGIS Executive Committees. You will be asked to relate your background, expertise, and interests to the 2023-2024 focus area, as well as your ideas for disseminating I-GUIDE's educational products and knowledge.  You'll also need to provide a 2-page, NSF-style biosketch. 

Ready to apply?  You can access the online form here.  

Eligibility Requirements

  • Mid- to Late-Career: Applicants should be at least at an associate professor level or have worked in the field of geospatial data science or education for ten years or more.

  • UCGIS Affiliated: Applicants must currently be affiliated with a UCGIS member institution.  A list of current UCGIS member institutions is provided on the UCIGS website.

  • Eligible to Receive Stipend:  Applicants must be eligible to receive a $3,000 stipend as part of their participation in the program. This honorarium is paid directly to the participant rather than through their institution. 

Application Timeline

  • Wednesday, November 29, 2023. An online panel discussion with three recent Community Champions . Register here for this informational session. 

  • Wednesday, December 20, 2023: Applications eue

  • Friday, January 5, 2024: All decisions announced

  • January 15, 2024: Deadline to accept invitations, and project work can begin

  • September 20, 2024: Project completion deadline

Project Proposal

As part of the application process, applicants are asked to propose a project to be completed over the course of the following year.  Some examples of possible projects or project components are given below.  However, applicants are not limited to proposals within the scope examples listed below.

  • Educational Content Creation: Develop concise educational materials, such as infographics, short video tutorials, or interactive quizzes, focusing on specific aspects of geospatial data science. These materials can be designed to explain complex concepts from the curriculum in a simple and engaging manner.

  • Case Studies: Research and create case studies that demonstrate the practical application of geospatial data science in solving real-world problems. These case studies can be used as learning resources within the curriculum to illustrate the relevance and impact of the concepts being taught.

  • Online Workshops or Webinars: Organize online workshops or webinars that delve into specific topics within the curriculum. Invite experts to share their knowledge and experiences, creating interactive sessions where participants can ask questions and engage in discussions.

  • Interactive Learning Modules: Develop interactive online modules or simulations that allow learners to explore geospatial data science concepts hands-on. These interactive tools can provide a dynamic learning experience, helping users grasp complex ideas through practical application.

  • Community Engagement: Actively participate in online forums, discussion groups, or social media platforms related to geospatial data science. Contribute by answering questions, sharing resources, and fostering discussions. Engaging with the community helps in spreading awareness about the curriculum initiative and gathering valuable feedback.

  • Feedback and Evaluation: Provide constructive feedback on existing curriculum materials. Test the modules or educational resources and offer insights on their effectiveness, usability, and clarity. This feedback is invaluable for continuous improvement.

  • Localization and Translation: Translate existing curriculum materials into different languages to make them accessible to a wider audience. Localization efforts can significantly enhance the initiative's reach and impact.

  • Documentation and User Guides: Contribute to the development of user guides and documentation for the curriculum materials. Clear and comprehensive guides help users navigate the curriculum effectively, ensuring a smooth learning experience.

Additional Information

View the links below for information on previous Community Champions cohorts:

Please reach out to Kate Vavra-Musser ([email protected]) or Eric Shook ([email protected]) with any questions or comments regarding the application process or Community Champions program.