Achieving Excellence in STEM Learning and Workforce Development: Goals and Roles of NSF’s Foundational Research Investments in STEM Education

Session Type: Invited Session

Abstract

The National Science Foundation plays a unique role in addressing U.S. priorities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. At the most general level, projects funded by NSF’s Directorate for Education and Human Resources (EHR) seek to achieve excellence in STEM for all learners, at all levels and in all settings. Individually and collectively, the awards in the EHR portfolio are designed to support advances in STEM learning; scientific literacy; and the preparation of a diverse, globally competent STEM workforce. This session focuses on the goals, roles, and contributions emerging from NSF’s foundational research investments – within that portfolio, and the nation’s innovation ecosystem. Investigators from projects poised to generate the fundamental theoretical knowledge and empirical evidence that drive innovation and excellence in STEM learning & education will describe their work. NSF program officers will elaborate the strategic role of such awards in the EHR portfolio, with particular consideration for the goals and roles of the EHR Core Research program.

Sub Unit

• AERA Presidential Session

Chair

• Sarah-Kay McDonald, National Science Foundation

Participants

• Margaret A. Eisenhart, University of Colorado - Boulder

• Lois Weis, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Susan M Fischer, DePaul University

• Nilanjana Dasgupta, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Bruce Weinberg, The Ohio State University

Discussant

• Finbarr C. Sloane, National Science Foundation