Three (3) Library Curiosity and Innovation Awards will be granted to students whose projects or research showcase exemplary use of the Makerspace facilities, audiovisual equipment from Media Services, or resources from the DRI Lab. This award highlights projects that effectively utilize any of these resources at any stage of their research or project cycle. Each winner will receive $250, a certificate, and the opportunity to showcase their work in the Digital Research and Inquiry Lab on the Library’s first floor and feature it on the library’s website.

*** By submitting your project, you authorize us to display your work.

1. Research/Project Quality and Rigor
   • Description of the work: Provide a clear synopsis of the research or project. It should not be more than 500 words long.
   • Clarity of Research Question or project objective: Does the research/project have a clear and concise objective?
   • Methodological Rigor: Are the methods sound and appropriate for the goals? Is there sufficient evidence of rigor in the design, data collection (if applied), and analysis?
   • Accuracy and Depth: Does the work show in-depth knowledge and understanding of the topic? Are the findings presented in an accurate and well-supported manner?
2. Innovation and Creativity
   • Originality: Does the work present new insights, approaches, or perspectives? How unique or creative is the approach to the research or project topic?
   • Use of Tools/Technology: What tools (Makerspace, Media Services, DRI Lab resources) have been used? How effectively does the work incorporate these tools or methods? Are the tools utilized creatively to enhance the overall quality of the work?
   • Problem-Solving and Adaptability:  Does the project or research demonstrate innovative problem-solving strategies or adaptability in the process?
3. Impact and Relevance
   • Social, Cultural, or Scientific Relevance: Is the work relevant to contemporary issues or needs in society?
   • Sustainability and Ethical Impact: Is the work conducted ethically? Does it address sustainable practices or consider its environmental or social impact?
4. Use of Tools and Presentation
   • Presentation of Outcomes: What medium has been used to present the findings? Are findings effectively communicated through clear and engaging visualizations, infographics, or digital media?
   • Organization and Clarity of the Content: Is the content organized logically and easy to follow? Does it effectively use tools to enhance the viewer’s understanding?
   • Technical Skill:  If applied, does the work demonstrate technical proficiency in using relevant digital tools, platforms, or software?
5. Engagement and Collaboration
   • Collaboration and Teamwork: Was the research conducted as part of a team? If so, does the work show effective collaboration, and are team roles and contributions clear?
   • Community and Stakeholder Engagement: If applicable, does the research involve stakeholders or community engagement?
6. Student Development and Learning Outcomes
   • Growth and Skill Development: How well does the research or project demonstrate the student’s learning and growth? Are there evident skills or knowledge developed through the work?

Submit your Paper or Project

• Research projects done between Jan – Dec 2024 can be submitted
• Students must have active enrollment in Spring 2025.
• Students can submit both academic research work and independent projects.
• Group projects are also encouraged
  • For group submissions, please designate a primary contact who will handle all communications and, if awarded, receive the check on behalf of the team.
  • In the event of a win, the prize money will be divided among the group members.
• Make the submission using the submission link.
• Application must include project title, course details if applies (course title, semester the course was taken, name and email address of the instructor).
• Provide a concise synopsis of your project, no longer than 500 words. Include a clear description of how the library tools and resources from Makerspace, Media Services, or DRI Lab were applied at any stage of your work. Additionally, explain the role the library played throughout your process.
• A bibliography or other listing of sources consulted, if not already included in the paper.

• For audio visual projects, links can be submitted.
  • Ensure the links have no access restrictions. If they are password protected, make sure to provide the passwords with your submission.
• Projects, if needed, can also be presented through images
  • Make sure the images are good quality and showcase the work with clarity.

• All applications for the 2024 award cycle are due by March 31, 2025.
• Awards will be announced andpresented through a ceremony on April 29, 2025

For questions or any additional information, please contact libaward@american.edu