HIGHER EDUCATION GRANTS Information and Data Management (IDM) * Novel research is encouraged in Web-based systems, multimedia systems, scientific databases, geographic information systems, digital libraries, and other intelligent information systems; efficient data gathering and storage/archival; information organization, information flow management and security/privacy issues; evolutionary systems, change maintenance, and information life-cycle management; heterogeneous systems; and highly scalable, data-intensive, and distributed/mobile information systems. Knowledge and Cognitive Systems (KCS) * Supports research for to the development of machines that behave intelligently. This can be in conjunction with humans (computer-aided machine intelligence) or alone (autonomous intelligent agents). Some of the research involves knowledge representation in machines, and studies of cognitive processes, which may be modeled on what we know of human or animal cognition, or may use approaches different from those in humans and animals. Multiple types of machine learning, planning, reasoning, decision making, sensory cognition, linguistic cognition, and combinations of these in intelligent agents are appropriate. A goal may be an application in integrated design and manufacturing, network management, medical diagnosis, data mining, intelligent tutoring, etc. Robotics and Human Augmentation (RHA) * Supports research for (1) design of machines and systems that are characteristic of a combination of sensing, machine intelligence, and generation of mechanical motion, and (2) studies in computer vision.. Research topics include: theoretical, algorithmic, experimental, and hardware issues, including those on macro-, micro- and nano-scale; intelligent sensing; robotics for unstructured environments; personal robots, with an emphasis on human-centered end use. Special Projects (SP) * Supports research activities exploring new relationships between computing, communication and digital content from human centered perspectives in order to support communities of users in scholarly, social and work contexts. The program manages the Digital Libraries Initiative http://www.dli2.nsf.gov/, to create large knowledge bases, and the means for improving their usability.

Universal Access Email: mlesk@nsf.gov Telephone: (703) 292-8930 Fax: (703) 292-9073 (UA) * Research here will aim to empower people with disabilities so that they are able to participate as first class citizens in the emerging information society. In addition, research in this area benefits the nation as a whole, by advancing computer technology so that all people can possess the skills needed to use computing to enrich their lives and become more productive. Languages for specifying multimedia, alternatives to the desktop interface leading to new and radically different designs and systems components are appropriate study topics. Michael Lesk, Ph.D,Division Director, Information and Intelligent Systems (IIS). Informal Science Education (ISE) K-12 & Higher Opportunities Deadline: August 15, 2003 Preliminary Proposal November 17, 2003 Full Proposal http://www.nsf.gov/cgi-bin/getpub?nsf03511 Contact: Barry Van Deman at bvandema@nsf.gov Tel: (703) 292-5124 ISE funds cross-cutting partnerships outside formal school settings where individuals of all ages, interests, and backgrounds increase their appreciation and understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The NSF expects to have approximately $30 million available to fund 40 to 60 grants. ISE will fund informal learning opportunities via media, exhibit, and community-based programs to increase scientific and technological literacy, and partnerships between major education stakeholders nationwide, including higher education, state and local education agencies, K-12 schools, school districts, and informal science education institutions such as nature or science centers, or other non profits, and industry. Information Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers Funding (ITEST) Deadline: Preliminary Proposal: (required): October 17, 2003, Full Proposal: January 31, 2004 http://www.nsf.gov/cgi-bin/getpub?nsf02147 Contact: Sylvia M. James at sjames@nsf.gov ITEST is designed to increase the opportunities for students and teachers to learn about, experience, and use information technologies within the context of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), including Information Technology (IT) courses. ITEST has three components: (a) youth-based projects with strong emphases on career and educational paths; (b) comprehensive projects for students and teachers; and (c) Resource Center(s) that engage in research related to funded projects, provide technical support and have responsibilities for national dissemination of project models, instructional materials, and best practices. Universities and non profits are eligible to apply as well as partnerships between organizations.