National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates in Digital Accessibility

College of Innovation & Technology

Research Experience for Undergraduates in Digital Accessibility

The University of Michigan-Flint National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates in Digital Accessibility creates opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in research projects related to digital accessibility, defined as the area of designing and developing software and technology in such a way that it can be accessed by all users, regardless of their physical and cognitive disabilities. The site will enable the direct training of students with and without disabilities in a collaborative environment. This will expose students without disabilities to the challenges faced by students and people with disabilities in both learning and using existing technologies. Conversely, students with disabilities will have the opportunity to learn how to interact and collaborate with students without disabilities, therefore preparing them for future graduate studies.

This site will build on the experience of many mentors who have worked with undergraduate students in their research to cover three themes:

1. Accessible Software Requirements Engineering and Design
2. Accessible Software Development
3. Accessible Software Testing and Maintenance

The proposed activities will include understanding the research literature, formulating and refining relevant research questions, performing empirical studies and designing novel approaches and prototypes. In addition to conducting research, the students will participate in other professional development activities, such as field trips, professional seminars, invited speaker series, career guidance, and graduate school preparation.

Apply

Apply by March 15 for priority review. Final application deadline: May 15, 2025

Who should participate

• Students in computing-related disciplines, such as computer science, data science, AI, software engineering, mathematics, and statistics, want to know how advanced computing techniques in their disciplines can help people with disabilities.
• Students interested in interdisciplinary research around inclusive software design and development.

Prerequisites/Eligibility

1. Must be an undergraduate student at an accredited institution in the fall semester following the program.
2. Completed at least 15 college credits before the start of the program.
3. Completed a minimum of one course in programming.
4. Be a U.S. citizen, national or permanent resident (required).
5. GPA of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 (not required).