i3 Project brings diverse perspectives into the field
The inaugural iSchool Inclusion Institute (i3) took place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from June 6 to 30, 2011. The project is designed to encourage undergraduate students from underrepresented groups to consider graduate study in the information sciences disciplines.
The i3 project is funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and hosted by the School of Information Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh, partnering with iSchools at Drexel University and Pennsylvania State University. All three schools are members of the iSchools Caucus, a consortium of universities that offer degrees and research programs in the information sciences; additional members of the iSchools Caucus are also supporting this program.
i3 seeks to identify promising undergraduate students and help them to explore the information field through a series of events and projects. Accepted students attend a four week summer institute in year one, participate in a yearlong research project, and return for a two week concluding institute in year two. All courses and workshops are taught by a team of iSchool faculty, doctoral students and professionals. The research project is mentored by a team of faculty and staff from iSchools across the United States.
The i3 Scholars also learn about the educational and research opportunities offered at the institutions that comprise the iSchools organization. Dedicated to advancing the information field in the 21st century, each individual member has its own strengths and specializations; together they share a fundamental interest in the relationships between information, people and technology.