Collaborative Research: An Incubation Project to Build Generative Artificial Intelligence Approaches for Research, Teaching, and Practice

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $12,923 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools are often viewed as transformative for social science research, education, and real-world decision-making. Despite their capabilities, GenAI tools might produce results that are not accurate or impartial. This project aims to address this challenge by equipping researchers, educators, students, and others with the tools and knowledge needed to apply GenAI in their research activities responsibly and rigorously. The project seeks to enable research communities to capture the benefits of using GenAI. The project develops and tests new human-in-the-loop approaches, relying on human expertise, judgment, and critical thinking, to integrate GenAI tools into document analysis and synthesis (DAS). DAS is a widely used but labor-intensive method in the social sciences. The goal of the project is to ensure accuracy and impartiality while supporting usability and broader adoption. The project team will create a generalizable methodological framework for GenAI-enhanced DAS workflows, outlining use cases and guiding key decisions, including how to structure context, prompt models, and validate results. The framework is tested through classroom-based research in a set of undergraduate and graduate courses. Students will engage in structured problem-solving exercises and participate in focus groups. The project team will analyze interactions between the students and GenAI tools, along with student reflections, to examine decision-making

Key facts

NSF award ID
2520730
Awardee
Boise State University (ID)
SAM.gov UEI
HYWTVM5HNFM3
PI
Stephanie S Lenhart
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES, Artificial Intelligence (AI), ER2-Ethical and Responsible Research
Estimated total
$12,923
Funds obligated
$12,923
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2026