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Learning And Intelligent Systems (LIS)

LIS Awards Efforts to understand the nature of learning and intelligence, realization of these capacities in the humanLIS mtg Awards and the mind, are among the most fundamental activities of science. The Learning and Intelligent Systems (LIS) focus emphasizes interdisciplinary research that (1) advances basic understanding of learning and intelligence in natural and artificial systems, and/or (2) supports the development of tools and environments to test and apply this understanding in real situations.

Goal
The aim of LIS is to unify experimentally and theoretically derived concepts related to learning and intelligent systems, and to promote the use and development of information technologies in learning across a wide variety of fields. This long-range goal is very broad and has the potential to make significant contributions toward innovative applications. To pursue this goal in a realistic and sustainable fashion, LIS focuses on fundamental scientific and technological research undertaken in the rigorous and disciplined manner characteristic of NSF-supported endeavors. The initiative ultimately should have a major impact on enhancing and supporting human intellectual and creative potential.

Scope
LIS encompasses studies of learning and intelligence in a wide range of systems, including (but not limited to) the nervous systems of humans or other animals; networks of computers performing complex computations; robotic devices that interact with their environments; social systems of human or non-human species; and, formal and informal learning situations. LIS also includes research that promotes the development and use of learning technologies across a broad range of fields. Development of new scientific knowledge on learning and intelligent systems, and its creative application to education and learning technologies, are integral parts of the LIS focus.

History
LIS began in FY 1997 as an independent initiative, and continues in FY 1998 as one of the foci of the Knowledge and Distributed Intelligence (KDI) theme. In FY 1997 LIS made 28 awards, consisting of 3 Center Awards, and 25 Research Awards. LIS does not anticipate funding centers in FY 1998, but will make awards for research projects. The LIS research emphases for FY1998 are essentially the same as those for FY 1997.

FY 97 Awards
Announcing: LIS Awards Search
Listings of the LIS awards for FY 1997 and FY 1998 are available. Also, abstracts for some awards are provided on the LIS Examples page.