Fund for the Improvement of Teaching (FIT)

The Faculty Development Committee announces the availability of small grants to improve teaching and learning at Calvin College. Six thousand dollars is available each semester for projects and purchases that will improve teaching effectiveness. Examples of previously funded projects include:

Equipment purchases, in support of active learning, which are not able to be funded by the department
Consultants who worked with departments on strategic planning related to curriculum and educational issues.
Attendance at a conference related to a departmental or cross departmental teaching goal.
Books and refreshments for a faculty learning community focused on a teaching and learning issue.

Application process:

A short application is required. Click here to apply.
The maximum award is $1000.00, but we encourage you to be conservative in your request, so that we can fund as many projects as possible.
Applications are accepted from a department, several faculty together, or an individual faculty member.
Applications that describe effects beyond the immediate project are given priority. Examples are:
1. Willingness to lead a teaching and learning lunch or other workshop related to the grant project
2. Ability to use the equipment or training in several courses
3. Cross departmental involvement.
Applications in support of core courses and core learning objectives are given priority.
A brief report on the project is required after it is completed.
Applications are accepted at any time. Awards are granted twice a year.
May 1 for projects or purchases for the first semester of each academic year.
December 1 for projects or purchases for the second semester of each academic year.
If any funds remain following these grant cycles, they will be granted as needed. Call the Dean for Instruction for more information.