Submission deadline: March 14, 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the global economy. Learners of all ages and employees of all backgrounds will need to understand how AI works, as well as how the technology is reshaping specific fields to succeed in this rapidly changing economy.

To address this growing need, MIT Open Learning is developing Universal Artificial Intelligence (UAI). Combining MIT faculty’s subject matter expertise and MIT Open Learning’s track record of delivering innovative digital learning experiences, UAI will teach the fundamentals of AI to a broad audience. It includes a horizontal collection of modules covering the fundamentals of AI with an application-oriented process as well as vertical modules of AI + X highlighting the various applications of AI in specific fields, such as climate, energy, health, and biology.

MIT Open Learning invites MIT faculty and postdocs to submit proposals for AI + X modules based on their research and area of expertise, such as AI + Oncology, AI + Materials Science, and AI + Drug Design — among many others. These modules should consist of either four (4) or eight (8) lectures. Given the rapid pace of change of the AI field, these modules will be easier to keep up-to-date and relevant to a universal audience. The selected modules will be integrated into our UAI collection. Faculty and postdocs will be featured on the UAI website. 

Proposal Requirements

Proposals should be one (1) to two (2) pages, and not exceed two (2) pages; they must include the following:

  • An overview of the module’s theme, its significance within the specific field in an AI-shaped ecosystem, and the intended learning outcomes.
  • A list of the proposed lectures and their titles.
  • A description of the homework exercises associated with each lecture.
  • An outline of the recitation session(s) to be led by Teaching Assistants (TAs), including discussion topics, problem-solving activities, or supplementary exercises designed to deepen student understanding.

Submission Process

Proposals should be submitted electronically to Megan Mitchell at meganmit@mit.edu by March 14, 2025. Please use the following subject line: Proposal: Universal AI Module. Submissions will be reviewed based on clarity, relevance, and the potential impact on the field and student learning. Selected modules will be announced April 4, 2025.

Faculty and postdocs whose proposals are selected will receive $2,500 per completed lecture for a total of $10,000 for a four-lecture module and $20,000 for an eight-lecture module.

MIT Open Learning will also provide up to $5,000 to support TAs for selected modules if faculty need to hire a TA.

Additional information can be found in the recent Faculty Newsletter article: How MIT Can Educate the World for the Era of AI. Inquiries may be directed to Megan Mitchell at meganmit@mit.edu.