The goal of the Center for Gesture, Sign, and Language (CGSL) is to explore the interplay among gesture, sign, and language and, in so doing, address basic questions about human language and development. To further this goal, the Center is offering funding (up to $2,500) for the following purposes.
Student-led research projects
Eligibility
- Preference will be given to collaborative projects, i.e. proposed by two (or more) students or postdocs, and related to the goal of the Center.
- Preference will be given to projects that are cross-disciplinary in nature, i.e. bring together theory and methods from more than one discipline.
- A faculty advisor must agree to supervise the project; please discuss the proposal with the faculty advisor before submitting it.
Guidelines
- Funds may be used for subject payments, RA salaries to assist with coding, and expenses related to data collection (including travel); funds may be used for travel to a conference to report the results of the project.
- Students are expected to give quarterly presentations on their projects; submit a written progress report by in Spring 2026; and submit a final report at the end of their project.
ASL Language Training
Eligibility
- Students must have completed at least two years of ASL classes at the University of Chicago or equivalent.
- Improving ASL skills must fit within a larger research plan that fits with the Center’s goal.
- Students are encouraged to consider ASL classes at Columbia College in Chicago or at Gallaudet University in Washington DC.
Guidelines
- Funds may be used for tuition and registration fees; if attending Gallaudet University, funds may also be used for transportation costs, housing, and meal plan fees.
Deadline
May 2, 2025. Please contact the Center for Gesture, Sign and Language for an extension, if necessary.