Ingrid Russell, professor of computer science in the College of Arts and Sciences, is the lead principal investigator on a grant in the amount of $99,469 from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

The project is funded by NSF’s Course, Curriculum, and Laboratory Improvement (CCLI) program, one of NSF’s most competitive programs. Approximately 800 proposals in science and engineering were submitted nationwide. Of the approximately 90 computer science proposals, Russell’s was one of 10 to be funded.

The CCLI program seeks to improve the quality of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant, particularly in light of its highly competitive nature. This work brings cutting edge research into the classroom,” Russell said.

Russell is working with two colleagues and co-principal investigators on the project: Zdravko Markov of the Computer Science Department at Central Connecticut State University and Todd Neller of the Computer Science Department at Gettysburg College.

The project, titled “Machine Learning Laboratory Experiences for Introducing Undergraduates to Artificial Intelligence,” involves the development of a framework for teaching core Artificial Intelligence (AI) topics through a unifying theme of machine learning. A suite of adaptable, hands-on laboratory projects will be developed that can be closely integrated into a one-semester AI course.

Several faculty members from computer science departments nationwide have already been affiliated with the project and have committed to using the material being developed. Information on the project can be found at http://uhaweb.hartford.edu/compsci/ccli