Assistance in Reimagining the Smithsonian Learning Lab

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides answers to questions submitted by vendors regarding the Smithsonian Learning Lab RFI (Request for Information), specifically addressing questions related to Learning Lab 2.0.

• Learning Lab 2.0 Scope: The government is still determining whether Learning Lab 2.0 will be an upgrade of the existing system or a complete rebuild, including user and content migration.
• Feature Prioritization & Sunset: The government is still determining which features of the new Learning Lab are essential for launch and which could be phased in later. They anticipate that some lesser-used features and content may be sunset to prioritize new features for launch. A process is being developed to review content quality for inclusion in 2.0.
• Scale Comparison: The scale of Learning Lab 2.0 is considered about the same as the original Learning Lab 1.0. However, 2.0 is starting from a different point, with a focus on making choices about existing content rather than starting with none. The overarching goal of reaching every classroom in America remains the same.
• AI Services Integration: The Smithsonian has used AI for internal projects. They are still determining if these existing AI services would be applicable for integration into LL2.0, or if new AI services will need to be developed or procured.

Several key aspects of the project, including the scope of the rebuild, feature prioritization, and the integration of AI, are still under determination. This suggests that further details or clarifications may be forthcoming, and bidders should monitor for updates. The document indicates ongoing evaluation of content and features for the next iteration.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides answers to questions submitted by potential vendors regarding the Smithsonian Learning Lab RFI (Request for Information) with ID 816229241.

• Object-Based Learning Definition: The Smithsonian defines object-based learning as using physical objects as a central tool for teaching and learning, where the object is the primary source of information. A formal instructional framework is under development.
• Learning Lab 2.0 Evolution: The Smithsonian is exploring whether Learning Lab 2.0 will be an evolution or a full replacement of the existing platform. Data migration (user accounts, collections, metadata, content) will involve collaboration between the Office of Educational Technology, Office of Digital Innovation, and Office of the Chief Information Officer.
• Governance Model: The Smithsonian is working with teachers to review collections for quality and standards alignment. UDL/508 accessibility will be a partnership effort. The role of user-generated content is still being determined.
• AI Usage: Currently, human-in-the-loop review is required for AI-generated results. AI is used for metadata consistency and standards alignment, but human checks are necessary before publishing.
• Professional Development: The Office of Educational Technology already provides professional development for PK12 teachers. There is no current expectation for the selected vendor to support educator training.
• Project Management: A Senior Digital Strategist is being hired as the main project lead. Internal stakeholders (educators) and external stakeholders (teacher work group) will be engaged.
• Timeline: The timeline will be developed with the selected vendor, likely involving a rolling launch for testing and feedback.
• RFP Issuance: An RFP, if issued, will follow the review of RFI submissions.

This document clarifies aspects of the potential project, including definitions, platform evolution, governance, AI usage, and project management. It indicates that an RFP may be issued after RFI responses are reviewed. No specific deadlines or requirements were modified by this Q&A document itself, but it provides crucial context for any future RFP.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides answers to questions submitted by potential vendors regarding the Smithsonian Learning Lab RFI (816229241).

• Budget/Funding: No estimated budget or firm funding plans are currently available.
• Set-Aside/Goals: A decision on small business set-asides or participation goals has not been made.
• Timeline: There is currently no timeline for a potential RFP release, evaluation, or award.
• Technical Architecture: Information on the current Learning Lab technical architecture is not yet available.
• Challenges: Information on current challenges may be provided in a future RFP.
• Vendor Engagement: Opportunities for direct engagement with the program office are not available at this time.
• Incumbent Vendors: Information on incumbent vendors will be provided in a future RFP if one is issued.
• Documentation: Information on current Learning Lab infrastructure documentation will be provided in a future RFP if one is issued.
• Compliance: Specific accessibility, privacy, or security compliance requirements beyond standard Smithsonian policies will be provided in a future RFP if one is issued.
• Rollout Approach: The Smithsonian anticipates a phased rollout, with teachers who completed a workgroup expressing willingness to provide feedback.

Key details regarding budget, timeline, technical architecture, and specific requirements are not yet available and may be provided in a future RFP. This indicates that the opportunity is in its early stages, and potential bidders should be aware that significant details are still to be determined.

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI seeks information from potential vendors to assist the Smithsonian's Office of Educational Technology (OET) in reimagining the Smithsonian Learning Lab platform. The goal is to make the Smithsonian's digital educational resources more discoverable, usable, and accessible for PreK-12 educators and students nationwide. The current platform, while containing millions of museum objects and resources, faces challenges with discoverability and efficient use.

The Smithsonian is looking for a strategic thought-partner to help achieve the following project goals:

• Create a transdisciplinary, accessible, and indispensable learning platform.
• Provide tools for educators to effectively teach with objects and incorporate authentic learning experiences.
• Integrate with existing learning tools and platforms used by educators.

The project is anticipated to encompass identification of user needs, functionality prioritization, technical considerations, auditing existing resources, building and testing a new site, and measuring success. The Smithsonian anticipates a multi-year contract for development and launch.

Vendors are requested to provide written responses to specific RFI questions regarding their company's mission, experience, approach to strategy and roadmap development, and how they would work with the Smithsonian. Responses are due by 2 PM on January 30, 2026. Inquiries can be submitted via email.

Not specified in this document.

This RFI is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a request for proposals or a commitment to issue a solicitation. The Smithsonian is not responsible for any costs associated with responding to this RFI.