Evaluative Criteria for 2023-2024 Discipline Specific Projects

The following information is used to determine the order in which applications are discussed by the Student Technology Fee Committee.  The ranking is not a direct determinant of final funding decisions.

  1. Persuasiveness of concept in learning and teaching (20 pts.) The proposal is compelling in its presentation of the need for the proposed project and of its value to students.
    • Please include an abstract (no more than 2 single-spaced page) that clearly addresses the problem or need being addressed, the proposed activities, and the intended outcomes. 
    • Please also include how this project will directly benefit the students listed in the IMPACT (IV) section of this proposal.
  2. Appropriateness of technology to the field of study (15 pts.) The proposal presents a compelling case for the appropriateness of the technology for which funding is sought: the technology is pertinent to the discipline, will enhance student learning, and has currency and a useful life commensurate with the costs entailed.
    • Please include a summary of how this will be used in the classroom or how it will enhance the student learning experience.
  3.  Number and range of students who would benefit from the proposed project (15 pts.) – The proposal, if implemented, will benefit significant numbers of students.  Projects that exemplify the principle of “the greatest good for the greatest number”, relative to the level of study, are generally more highly rated than projects that benefit only a small and narrowly defined group of students.  Consideration will be given to the impact specific course initiatives will have on student progression to degree.
    • Please list in IMPACT (IV) section of this proposal.
  4.  Rank given by Dean of College or Vice President (10 pts.) – Dean/Vice Presidents’ rankings have historically been given very significant, but not always decisive, weight in final funding decisions made by the Student Technology Fee Oversight Committee.
  5. Rank given by the Provost’s Office (10 pts.) – Degree to which the proposed project will positively impact objectives in LSU’s Strategic Plan 2025 Agenda as evaluated by the Provost’s Office.
  6. Degree to which the proposed project is appropriate to the objectives of the department/college/unit (10 pts.) – The proposal is congruent with departmental objectives as set forth in planning documents, in responses to the recommendations of accreditors, and in commitments set forth in memoranda of agreement pursuant to LSU’s internal program review process (or the proposal otherwise makes it clear that the project addresses issues identified through assessment of student needs and learning outcomes).
  7. Value of Investment (10 pts.) – The proposal presents a compelling case that the project benefits not only the college/department, but the University as a whole.
  8. Clarity of budget presentation (10 pts.) – The budget and justification are clear; the budget justification clarifies issues that may not be self-explanatory in the budget itself. All foreseeable costs should be included. Undergraduate student employees’ salaries, should not exceed 10% of the total budget of the project. Renovations, infrastructure or furniture costs should not exceed 30% of a project’s total budget (e.g., electrical upgrades, architectural renovations, HVAC modifications, acquisition and installation of network connectivity [fiber optics, hubs, nodes, penetrations and the like], etc.)
    • Use attached Budget form to present a complete budget summary for the project.  Please provide a justification for this budget of no more than one double spaced page, printed in no less than a 10 point font.  In this justification please provide detail description of any and other sources of funding, leveraging opportunities or other resources that will be available for this project.  Please include one additional sheet with job descriptions of undergraduate student employees if applicable.
  9.  The principal implementer’s experience with previous Tech Fee projects – Points will be deducted from proposals originating with individuals who have not performed well with past awards from the Student Technology Fee Program (e.g., who have failed to implement their projects in a timely fashion or to submit required reports).

All documents must be submitted through Moodle by October 30, 2023 by noon.