[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 118 (Thursday, June 19, 1997)]
[Notices]
[Pages 33514-33533]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 97-15931]



[[Page 33513]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part III





Department of Education





_______________________________________________________________________



Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; National 
Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research; Notice Inviting 
Applications for New Awards Under Certain Programs for Fiscal Year 
1998; Notice

  Federal Register / Vol. 62, No. 118 / Thursday, June 19, 1997 / 
Notices  

[[Page 33514]]


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DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

[CFDA Nos.: 84.133F, 84.133G, and 84.133P]


Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; National 
Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research; Notice Inviting 
Applications for New Awards Under Certain Programs for Fiscal 1998

    Note To Applicants: This notice is a complete application package. 
Together with the statute authorizing the programs and applicable 
regulations governing the programs, including the Education Department 
General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), this notice contains 
information, application forms, and instructions needed to apply for a 
grant under these competitions.
    These programs support the National Education Goal that calls for 
all Americans to possess the knowledge and skills necessary to compete 
in a global economy and exercise the rights and responsibilities of 
citizenship.
    The estimated funding levels in this notice do not bind the 
Department of Education to make awards in any of these categories, or 
to any specific number of awards or funding levels, unless otherwise 
specified in statute.
    Applicable Regulations: The Education Department General 
Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 80, 81, 
82, 85, and 86; and the following program regulations:
    Research Fellowships--34 CFR part 356.
    Field-Initiated Projects--34 CFR parts 350.
    Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Projects--34 CFR part 
350.
    Program Title: Research Fellowships.
    CFDA Number: 84.133F.
    Purpose: The purpose of the Research Fellowship program is to build 
research capacity by providing support to highly qualified individuals, 
including those who are individuals with disabilities, to perform 
research on the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities. 
Fellows may conduct original research in any area authorized by section 
204 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Fellows may address 
problems encountered by persons with disabilities in their daily lives 
that are due to the presence of a disabling condition, problems 
associated with the provision of rehabilitation services to individuals 
with disabilities, and problems connected with the conduct of 
disability research.
    The program provides two categories of Fellowships: Merit 
Fellowships and Distinguished Fellowships. To be eligible for a 
Distinguished Fellowship, an individual must have seven or more years 
of research experience in subject areas, methods, or techniques 
relevant to rehabilitation research and must have a doctorate, other 
terminal degree, or comparable academic qualifications. To be eligible 
for a Merit Fellowship, an individual must have either advanced 
professional training or experience in independent study in an area 
which is directly pertinent to disability and rehabilitation.
    The Fellowship awards are for twelve months, and award recipients 
are required to work full time on authorized fellowship activities. A 
Fellowship award includes a fixed stipend and a flat rate allowance for 
research and research-related expenses including travel expenses. 
Applicants are not required to submit budget proposals.
    Selection Criteria: The Secretary evaluates applications for 
Fellowships according to the following criteria in 34 CFR 356.30.
    (a) Quality and level of formal education, previous work 
experience, and recommendations of present or former supervisors or 
colleagues that include an indication of the applicant's ability to 
work creatively in scientific research; and
    (b) The quality of a research proposal of no more than 12 pages 
containing the following information:
    (1) The importance of the problem to be investigated to the purpose 
of the Act and the mission of NIDRR.
    (2) The research hypotheses or related objectives and the 
methodology and design to be followed.
    (3) Assurance of the availability of any necessary data resources, 
equipment, or institutional support, including technical consultation 
and support where appropriate, required to carry out the proposed 
activity.
    Eligible Applicants: Only individuals are eligible to be recipients 
of Fellowships. Institutions are not eligible to be recipients of 
Fellowships.
    Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 761a(d).

                 Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1998 Research Fellowships, CFDA No. 84.133F                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Deadline for        Estimated                              Project  
          Funding priority                 transmittal of       number of     Maximum award amount      period  
                                            applications          awards          (per year) *         (months) 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Research Fellowships................  August 29, 1997........           10  Merit: $45,000                   12 
                                                                             Distinguished: $55,000.            
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project     
  funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)).                            

Program Title: Field-Initiated Projects

    CFDA Number: 84.133G.
    Purpose: Field-Initiated (FI) projects must further one or more of 
the following purposes: develop methods, procedures, and rehabilitation 
technology, that maximize the full inclusion and integration into 
society, employment, independent living, family support, and economic 
and social self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities, 
especially individuals with the most severe disabilities; and improve 
the effectiveness of services authorized under the Act. Field-Initiated 
projects carry out either research activities or development 
activities.
    In carrying out a research activity, a grantee must identify one or 
more hypotheses, and based on the hypotheses identified, perform an 
intensive systematic study directed toward new or full scientific 
knowledge, or understanding of the subject or problem studied.
    In carrying out a development activity, a grantee must use 
knowledge and understanding gained from research to create materials, 
devices, systems, or methods beneficial to the target population, 
including design and development of prototypes and processes. Target 
population means the group of individuals, organizations, or other 
entities expected to be affected by the project. More than one group 
may be involved since a project may affect those who receive services, 
provide services, or administer services.
    There are two different sets of selection criteria for FI projects: 
one set to evaluate applications proposing to carry out research 
activities, and a

[[Page 33515]]

second set to evaluate applications proposing to carry out development 
activities. An applicant for a FI project should designate clearly on 
the cover page of the application whether the project proposes to carry 
out research or development activities. The set of FI selection 
criteria that will be used to evaluate an application will be based on 
the applicant's designation of the type of activity that the 
application proposes to carry out.
    Invitational Priorities: The Secretary is particularly interested 
in applications that address one of the following invitational 
priorities. However, under 34 CFR 75.105(c)(1) an application that 
meets an invitational priority does not receive competitive or absolute 
preference over other applications. The invitational priorities are: 
(1) The implications of new developments in genetic research on the 
areas of civil rights and counseling for individuals with disabilities; 
(2) the use of teleconferencing technology in providing disability-
related services, such as rehabilitation and medical services; (3) the 
marketing of disability-related products, services, and publications; 
(4) issues related to the implementation of the Americans with 
Disabilities Act on individuals with disabilities from minority 
backgrounds, especially Asian-Americans; and (5) the needs of 
individuals with a combination of significant physical and speech 
disabilities.

Selection Criteria: Field-Initiated Project--Research Activities

    The Secretary uses the following criteria to evaluate a Field-
Initiated Project application that proposes to carry out research 
activities.
    (a) Importance of the problem (15 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the importance of the problem.
    (2) In determining the importance of the problem, the Secretary 
considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the applicant clearly describes the need 
and target population (5 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed activities further the 
purposes of the Act (4 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the proposed project will have beneficial 
impact on the target population (6 points).
    (b) Design of research activities (40 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of 
research activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the 
objectives of the project.
    (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be 
effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 
considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the research activities constitute a 
coherent, sustained approach to research in the field, including a 
substantial addition to the state-of-the-art (10 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the methodology of each proposed research 
activity is meritorious, including consideration of the extent to 
which--
    (A) The proposed design includes a comprehensive and informed 
review of the current literature, demonstrating knowledge of the state-
of-the-art (5 points);
    (B) Each research hypothesis is theoretically sound and based on 
current knowledge (5 points);
    (C) Each sample population is appropriate and of sufficient size (5 
points);
    (D) The data collection and measurement techniques are appropriate 
and likely to be effective (4 points); and
    (E) The data analysis methods are appropriate (4 points).
    (iii) The extent to which anticipated research results are likely 
to satisfy the original hypotheses and could be used for planning 
additional research, including generation of new hypotheses where 
applicable (7 points).
    (c) Design of dissemination activities (5 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of 
dissemination activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the 
objectives of the project.
    (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be 
effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 
considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the materials 
to be disseminated are likely to be effective and usable, including 
consideration of their quality, clarity, variety, and format (2 
points).
    (ii) The extent to which the materials and information to be 
disseminated and the methods for dissemination are appropriate to the 
target population, including consideration of the familiarity of the 
target population with the subject matter, format of the information, 
and subject matter (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the information to be disseminated will 
be accessible to individuals with disabilities (1 point).
    (d) Plan of operation (6 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of operation.
    (2) In determining the quality of the plan of operation, the 
Secretary considers the adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve 
the objectives of the proposed project on time and within budget, 
including clearly defined responsibilities, and timelines for 
accomplishing project tasks (6 points).
    (e) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (4 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and the reasonableness of 
the proposed budget.
    (2) In determining the adequacy and the reasonableness of the 
proposed budget, the Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the 
proposed project activities (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any 
subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed project 
activities (2 points).
    (f) Plan of evaluation (10 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of evaluation.
    (2) In determining the quality of the plan of evaluation, the 
Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of progress toward--
    (A) Implementing the plan of operation (3 points); and
    (B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected impacts 
(2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified 
performance measures that--
    (A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and 
expected impacts on the target population (3 points); and
    (B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate 
(2 points).
    (g) Project staff (15 total points).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the project staff.
    (2) In determining the quality of the project staff, the Secretary 
considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for 
employment from persons who are members of groups that have 
traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national 
origin, gender, age, or disability (2 points).
    (3) In addition, the Secretary considers the following:
    (i) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have 
appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to conduct 
all proposed activities (5 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate 
to

[[Page 33516]]

accomplish all the proposed activities of the project (3 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about 
the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas (5 points).
    (h) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (5 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and accessibility of the 
applicant's resources to implement the proposed project.
    (2) In determining the adequacy and accessibility of resources, the 
Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide 
adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including 
administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate (3 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other 
resources are appropriately accessible to individuals with disabilities 
who may use the facilities, equipment, and other resources of the 
project (2 points).

Selection Criteria: Field-Initiated Project--Development Activities

    The Secretary uses the following criteria to evaluate a Field-
Initiated Project application that proposes to carry out development 
activities.
    (a) Importance of the problem (15 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the importance of the problem.
    (2) In determining the importance of the problem, the Secretary 
considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the applicant clearly describes the need 
and target population (5 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed activities further the 
purposes of the Act (4 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the proposed project will have beneficial 
impact on the target population (6 points).
    (b) Design of development activities (40 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of 
development activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the 
objectives of the project.
    (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be 
effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 
considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the plan for development, clinical testing, 
and evaluation of new devices and technology is likely to yield 
significant products or techniques, including consideration of the 
extent to which--
    (A) The proposed project will use the most effective and 
appropriate technology available in developing the new device or 
technique (6 points);
    (B) The proposed development is based on a sound conceptual model 
that demonstrates an awareness of the state-of-the-art in technology (9 
points);
    (C) The new device or technique will be developed and tested in an 
appropriate environment (6 points);
    (D) The new device or technique is likely to be cost-effective and 
useful (5 points);
    (E) The new device or technique has the potential for commercial or 
private manufacture, marketing, and distribution of the product (9 
points); and
    (F) The proposed development efforts include adequate quality 
controls and, as appropriate, repeated testing of products (5 points).
    (c) Design of dissemination activities (5 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of 
dissemination activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the 
objectives of the project.
    (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be 
effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 
considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the materials to be disseminated are likely 
to be effective and usable, including consideration of their quality, 
clarity, variety, and format (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the materials and information to be 
disseminated and the methods for dissemination are appropriate to the 
target population, including consideration of the familiarity of the 
target population with the subject matter, format of the information, 
and subject matter (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the information to be disseminated will 
be accessible to individuals with disabilities (1 point).
    (d) Plan of operation (6 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of operation.
    (2) In determining the quality of the plan of operation, the 
Secretary considers the adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve 
the objectives of the proposed project on time and within budget, 
including clearly defined responsibilities, and timelines for 
accomplishing project tasks (6 points).
    (e) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (4 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and the reasonableness of 
the proposed budget.
    (2) In determining the adequacy and the reasonableness of the 
proposed budget, the Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the 
proposed project activities (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any 
subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed project 
activities (2 points).
    (f) Plan of evaluation (10 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of evaluation.
    (2) In determining the quality of the plan of evaluation, the 
Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of progress toward--
    (A) Implementing the plan of operation (3 points); and
    (B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected impacts 
(2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified 
performance measures that--
    (A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and 
expected impacts on the target population (3 points); and
    (B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate 
(2 points).
    (g) Project staff (15 total points).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the project staff.
    (2) In determining the quality of the project staff, the Secretary 
considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for 
employment from persons who are members of groups that have 
traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national 
origin, gender, age, or disability (2 points).
    (3) In addition, the Secretary considers the following:
    (i) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have 
appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to conduct 
all proposed activities (5 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate 
to accomplish all the proposed activities of the project (3 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about 
the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas (5 points).
    (h) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (5 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and accessibility of the 
applicant's resources to implement the proposed project.
    (2) In determining the adequacy and accessibility of resources, the 
Secretary considers the following factors:

[[Page 33517]]

    (i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide 
adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including 
administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate (3 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other 
resources are appropriately accessible to individuals with disabilities 
who may use the facilities, equipment, and other resources of the 
project (2 points).
    Eligible Applicants: Public and private organizations, including 
institutions of higher education and Indian tribes and tribal 
organizations, are eligible to apply for awards under this program.
    Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 762.

               Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1998 Field-Initiated Projects, CFDA No. 84.133G               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                          Maximum               
                                              Deadline for transmittal of   Estimated      award       Project  
              Funding priority                       applications           number of      amount       period  
                                                                              awards    (per year)*    (months) 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Field-Initiated Projects...................  August 29, 1997.............           30     $125,000          36 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project     
  funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)).                            

    Program Title: Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Projects.
    CFDA Number: 84.133P
    Purpose: Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Projects 
must provide research training and experience at an advanced level to 
individuals with doctorates or similar advanced degrees who have 
clinical or other relevant experience. ARRT Projects train 
rehabilitation researchers, including individuals with disabilities, 
with particular attention to research areas that support the 
implementation and objectives of the Rehabilitation Act and that 
improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the Act.
    ARRT Projects must carry out all of the following activities: 
recruit and select candidates for advanced research training; provide a 
training program that includes didactic and classroom instruction, is 
multidisciplinary, and emphasizes scientific methodology, and may 
involve collaboration among institutions; provide research experience, 
laboratory experience or its equivalent in a community-based research 
setting, and a practicum that involves each individual in clinical 
research and in practical activities with organizations representing 
individuals with disabilities; provide academic mentorship or guidance, 
and opportunities for scientific collaboration with qualified 
researchers at the host university and other appropriate institutions; 
and provide opportunities for participation in the development of 
professional presentations and publications, and for attendance at 
professional conferences and meetings as appropriate for the 
individual's field of study and level of experience.

Selection Criteria: Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Projects

    The Secretary uses the following criteria to evaluate an Advanced 
Rehabilitation Research Training Project application.
    (a) Importance of the problem (10 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the importance of the problem.
    (2) In determining the importance of the problem, the Secretary 
considers the extent to which the applicant proposes to provide 
training in a rehabilitation discipline or area of study in which there 
is a shortage of qualified researchers, or to a trainee population in 
which there is a need for more qualified researchers (10 points).
    (b) Design of training activities (40 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of 
training activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the 
objectives of the project.
    (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be 
effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 
considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the proposed training methods are of 
sufficient quality, intensity, and duration (5 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed training materials and 
methods are accessible to individuals with disabilities (6 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the applicant's proposed recruitment 
program is likely to be effective in recruiting highly qualified 
trainees, including those who are individuals with disabilities (7 
points).
    (iv) The extent to which the proposed didactic and classroom 
training programs emphasize scientific methodology and are likely to 
develop highly qualified researchers (6 points).
    (v) The extent to which the quality and extent of the academic 
mentorship, guidance, and supervision to be provided to each individual 
trainee are of a high level and are likely to develop highly qualified 
researchers (6 points).
    (vi) The extent to which the type, extent, and quality of the 
proposed clinical and laboratory research experience, including the 
opportunity to participate in advanced-level research, are likely to 
develop highly qualified researchers (5 points).
    (vii) The extent to which the opportunities for collegial and 
collaborative activities, exposure to outstanding scientists in the 
field, and opportunities to participate in the preparation of scholarly 
or scientific publications and presentations are extensive and 
appropriate (5 points).
    (c) Plan of operation (10 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of operation.
    (2) In determining the quality of the plan of operation, the 
Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve the objectives 
of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly 
defined responsibilities, and timelines for accomplishing project tasks 
(5 points).
    (ii) The adequacy of the plan of operation to provide for using 
resources, equipment, and personnel to achieve each objective (5 
points).
    (d) Collaboration (5 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of collaboration.
    (2) In determining the quality of collaboration, the Secretary 
considers one or more of the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the applicant's proposed collaboration with 
one or more agencies, organizations, or institutions is likely to be 
effective in achieving the relevant proposed activities of the project 
(2 points).

[[Page 33518]]

    (ii) The extent to which agencies, organizations, or institutions 
demonstrate a commitment to collaborate with the applicant (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which agencies, organizations, or institutions 
that commit to collaborate with the applicant have the capacity to 
carry out collaborative activities (1 point).
    (e) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (10 points).
    (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and the reasonableness of 
the proposed budget.
    (2) In determining the adequacy and the reasonableness of the 
proposed budget, the Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the 
proposed project activities (4 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any 
subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed project 
activities (3 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the applicant is of sufficient size, 
scope, and quality to effectively carry out the activities in an 
efficient manner (3 points).
    (f) Plan of evaluation (10 points).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of evaluation.
    (2) In determining the quality of the plan of evaluation, the 
Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of progress toward--
    (A) Implementing the plan of operation (2 points); and
    (B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected impacts 
(2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation will be used to 
improve the performance of the project through the feedback generated 
by its periodic assessments (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified 
performance measures that--
    (A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and 
expected impacts on the target population (2 points); and
    (B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate 
(2 points).
    (g) Project staff (10 points total).
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the project staff.
    (2) In determining the quality of the project staff, the Secretary 
considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for 
employment from persons who are members of groups that have 
traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national 
origin, gender, age, or disability (2 points).
    (3) In addition, the Secretary considers the following:
    (i) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have 
appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to conduct 
all proposed activities (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate 
to accomplish all the proposed activities of the project (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about 
the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas (2 points).
    (iv) The extent to which the project staff includes outstanding 
scientists in the field (1 point).
    (v) The extent to which key personnel have up-to-date knowledge 
from research or effective practice in the subject area covered in the 
priority (1 point).
    (h) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (5 points).
    (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and accessibility of the 
applicant's resources to implement the proposed project.
    (2) In determining the adequacy and accessibility of resources, the 
Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide 
adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including 
administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate (2 points).
    (ii) The quality of an applicant's past performance in carrying out 
a grant (1 point).
    (iii) The extent to which the applicant has appropriate access to 
clinical populations and organizations representing individuals with 
disabilities to support advanced clinical rehabilitation research (1 
point).
    (iv) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other 
resources are appropriately accessible to individuals with disabilities 
who may use the facilities, equipment, and other resources of the 
project (1 point).
    Eligible Applicants: Institutions of higher education are eligible 
to receive awards under this program.
    Program Authority: 29. U.S.C. 761a(k).

  Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1998 Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Projects, CFDA No. 84.133P  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                          Maximum               
                                             Deadline for transmittal of    Estimated      award       Project  
             Funding Priority                        applications           number of      amount       period  
                                                                              awards     (per year)    (months) 
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------*------------------
Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training   August 29, 1997..............            5     $150,000          60 
 Projects.                                                                                                      
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project     
  funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)).                            

Instructions for Application Narrative

    The Secretary strongly recommends that applicants for FI or ARRT 
projects include a one-page abstract in their application.

Strict Page Limits: FI and ARRT Projects

    Part III of the application, the Application Narrative, requires 
applicants to address the selection criteria that will be used by 
reviewers in evaluating individual proposals. The applicant for a FI or 
ARRT project must limit Part III--Application Narrative to no more than 
50 double-spaced 8\1/2\ x 11'' pages (on one side only) with one inch 
margins (top, bottom, and sides). This page limitation applies to all 
materials presented in the application narrative--including, for 
example, any charts, tables, figures, and graphs. The application 
narrative page limit does not apply to: Part I--the electronically 
scannable form; Part II--the budget section (including the narrative 
budget justification); and Part IV--the assurances and certifications. 
Also, the one-page abstract, resume(s), bibliography, or letters of 
support, while considered part of the application, are not subject to 
the page limitation. Applicants should note that reviewers are not 
required to review any

[[Page 33519]]

information provided in addition to the application information listed 
above. All sections of text in the application narrative must be 
double-spaced (no more than 3 lines per vertical inch). If using a 
proportional computer font, use no smaller than a 12-point font, and an 
average character density no greater than 14 characters per inch. If 
using a nonproportional font or typewriter, do not use more than 12 
characters per inch. Double-spacing and font requirements do not apply 
within charts, tables, figures, and graphs, but the information 
presented in those formats should be easily readable.

Strict Page Limits: Research Fellowships

    The research proposal for a Fellowship application must be limited 
to no more than 12 pages.

    Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or 
evaluation any application for a FI project, ARRT project, or 
Research Fellowship that does not adhere to these requirements.

Instructions for Transmittal of Applications

    (a) If an applicant wants to apply for a grant, the applicant 
shall--
    (1) Mail the original and two copies of the application on or 
before the deadline date to: U.S. Department of Education, Application 
Control Center, Attention: (CFDA # [Applicant must insert number and 
letter]), Washington, DC 20202-4725, or
    (2) Hand deliver the original and two copies of the application by 
4:30 p.m. [Washington, DC time] on the deadline date to: U.S. 
Department of Education, Application Control Center, Attention: (CFDA # 
[Applicant must insert number and letter]), Room #3633, Regional Office 
Building #3, 7th and D Streets, SW., Washington, DC.
    (b) An applicant must show one of the following as proof of 
mailing:
    (1) A legibly dated U.S. Postal Service postmark.
    (2) A legible mail receipt with the date of mailing stamped by 
the U.S. Postal Service.
    (3) A dated shipping label, invoice, or receipt from a 
commercial carrier.
    (4) Any other proof of mailing acceptable to the Secretary.
    (c) If an application is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service, 
the Secretary does not accept either of the following as proof of 
mailing:
    (1) A private metered postmark.
    (2) A mail receipt that is not dated by the U.S. Postal Service.

    Notes: (1) The U.S. Postal Service does not uniformly provide a 
dated postmark. Before relying on this method, an applicant should 
check with its local post office.
    (2) An applicant wishing to know that its application has been 
received by the Department must include with the application a 
stamped self-addressed postcard containing the CFDA number and title 
of this program.
    (3) The applicant must indicate on the envelope and--if not 
provided by the Department--in Item 10 of the Application for 
Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424) the CFDA number--and letter, 
if any--of the competition under which the application is being 
submitted.

Application Forms and Instructions

    The appendix to this application is divided into four parts. 
These parts are organized in the same manner that the submitted 
application should be organized. These parts are as follows:
    Part I: Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424 
(Rev. 4-88)) and instructions.
    Part II: Budget Form--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 
524A) and instructions.
    Part III: Application Narrative.

Additional Materials

    Estimated Public Reporting Burden.
    Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B).
    Certification Regarding Lobbying, Debarment, Suspension, and 
Other Responsibility Matters: and Drug-Free Work-Place Requirements 
(ED Form 80-0013).
    Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and 
Voluntary Exclusion: Lower Tier Covered Transactions (ED Form 80-
0014) and instructions.

    Note: ED Form GCS-014 is intended for the use of primary 
participants and should not be transmitted to the Department.

    Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (Standard Form LLL (if 
applicable) and instructions; and Disclosure Lobbying Activities 
Continuation Sheet (Standard Form LLL-A).
    An applicant may submit information on a photostatic copy of the 
application and budget forms, the assurances, and the 
certifications. However, the application form, the assurances, and 
the certifications must each have an original signature. No grant 
may be awarded unless a completed application form has been 
received.
    For Applications Contact: The Grants and Contracts Service Team, 
Department of Education, 600 Independence Avenue SW., Switzer 
Building, 3317, Washington, DC 20202, or call (202) 205-8207. 
Individuals who use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) 
may call the TDD number at (202) 205-9860. The preferred method for 
requesting information is to FAX your request to (202) 205-8717.
    Information about the Department's funding opportunities, 
including copies of application notices for discretionary grant 
competitions, can be viewed on the Department's electronic bulletin 
board (ED Board), telephone (202) 260-9950; on the Internet Gopher 
Server (at gopher://gcs.ed.gov); or on the World Wide Web (at http:/
/gcs.ed.gov). However, the official application notice for a 
discretionary grant competition is the notice published in the 
Federal Register.

    Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 760-762.

    Dated: June 12, 1997.
Judith E. Heumann,
Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.

Appendix

Application Forms and Instructions

    Applicants are advised to reproduce and complete the application 
forms in this Section. Applicants are required to submit an original 
and two copies of each application as provided in this Section.

Frequent Questions

    1. Can I Get An Extension Of The Due Date?
    No! On rare occasions the Department of Education may extend a 
closing date for all applicants. If that occurs, a notice of the 
revised due date is published in the Federal Register. However, 
there are no extensions or exceptions to the due date made for 
individual applicants.
    2. What Should Be Included In The Application?
    The application should include a project narrative, vitae of key 
personnel, and a budget, as well as the Assurances forms included in 
this package. Vitae of staff or consultants should include the 
individual's title and role in the proposed project, and other 
information that is specifically pertinent to this proposed project. 
The budgets for both the first year and all subsequent project years 
should be included.
    If collaboration with another organization is involved in the 
proposed activity, the application should include assurances of 
participation by the other parties, including written agreements or 
assurances of cooperation. It is not useful to include general 
letters of support or endorsement in the application.
    If the applicant proposes to use unique tests or other 
measurement instruments that are not widely known in the field, it 
would be helpful to include the instrument in the application.
    Many applications contain voluminous appendices that are not 
helpful and in many cases cannot even be mailed to the reviewers. It 
is generally not helpful to include such things as brochures, 
general capability statements of collaborating organizations, maps, 
copies of publications, or descriptions of other projects completed 
by the applicant.
    3. What Format Should Be Used For The Application?
    NIDRR generally advises applicants that they may organize the 
application to follow the selection criteria that will be used. The 
specific review criteria vary according to the specific program, and 
are contained in this Consolidated Application Package.
    4. May I Submit Applications To More Than One NIDRR Program 
Competition Or More Than One Application To A Program?
    Yes, you may submit applications to any program for which they 
are responsive to the program requirements. You may submit the same 
application to as many competitions as you believe appropriate. You 
may also submit more than one application in any given competition.

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    5. What Is The Allowable Indirect Cost Rate?
    The limits on indirect costs vary according to the program and 
the type of application. Applicants for an Advanced Rehabilitation 
Research Training project must limit indirect charges to 8 percent. 
Applicants for a Field-Initiated project program should limit 
indirect charges to the organization's approved rate. If the 
organization does not have an approved rate, the application should 
include an estimated actual rate. Fellowship awards are made to 
individuals, therefore indirect cost rates do not apply.
    6. Can Profitmaking Businesses Apply For Grants?
    Yes. However, for-profit organizations will not be able to 
collect a fee or profit on the grant, and in some programs will be 
required to share in the costs of the project.
    7. Can Individuals Apply For Grants?
    No. Only organizations are eligible to apply for grants under 
NIDRR programs. However, individuals are the only entities eligible 
to apply for fellowships.
    8. Can NIDRR Staff Advise Me Whether My Project Is Of Interest 
To NIDRR Or Likely To Be Funded?
    No. NIDRR staff can advise you of the requirements of the 
program in which you propose to submit your application. However, 
staff cannot advise you of whether your subject area or proposed 
approach is likely to receive approval.
    9. How Do I Assure That My Application Will Be Referred To The 
Most Appropriate Panel For Review?
    Applicants should be sure that their applications are referred 
to the correct competition by clearly including the competition 
title and CFDA number, including alphabetical code, on the Standard 
Form 424, and including a project title that describes the project.
    10. How Soon After Submitting My Application Can I Find Out If 
It Will Be Funded?
    The time from closing date to grant award date varies from 
program to program. Generally speaking, NIDRR endeavors to have 
awards made within five to six months of the closing date. 
Unsuccessful applicants generally will be notified within that time 
frame as well. For the purpose of estimating a project start date, 
the applicant should estimate approximately six months from the 
closing date, but no later than the following September 30.
    11. Can I Call NIDRR To Find Out If My Application Is Being 
Funded?
    No. When NIDRR is able to release information on the status of 
grant applications, it will notify applicants by letter. The results 
of the peer review cannot be released except through this formal 
notification.
    12. If My Application Is Successful, Can I Assume I Will Get The 
Requested Budget Amount In Subsequent Years?
    No. Funding in subsequent years is subject to availability of 
funds and project performance.
    13. Will All Approved Applications Be Funded?
    No. It often happens that the peer review panels approve for 
funding more applications than NIDRR can fund within available 
resources. Applicants who are approved but not funded are encouraged 
to consider submitting similar applications in future competitions.

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    Public reporting burden for these collections of information is 
estimated to average 30 hours per response, including the time for 
reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering 
and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the 
collection of information.
    Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect 
of these collections of information, including suggestions for 
reducing this burden, to: the U.S. Department of Education, 
Information Management and Compliance Division, Washington, DC 
20202-4651; and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork 
Reduction Project 1820-0027, Washington, DC 20503.
    Research Fellowships--(CFDA No. 84.133F) 34 CFR Part 356.
    Field-Initiated Research--(CFDA No. 84.133G) 34 CFR Part 350.
    Research Training and Career Development Program--(CFDA No. 
84.133P) 34 CFR part 350.

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[FR Doc. 97-15931 Filed 6-18-97; 8:45 am]
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