What do youth app developers, a mathematically-inclined feline, and trout fishermen using an online tool to identify aquatic insects have in common? They’re all examples of informal STEM learning in action that Rockman et al is fortunate to have in its evaluation portfolio. They’ve also been funded by the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Advancing Informal STEM Learning (AISL) program.
The AISL program “seeks to advance new approaches to and evidence- based understanding of the design and development of STEM learning opportunities for the public in informal environments; provide multiple pathways for broadening access to and engagement in STEM learning experiences; advance innovative research on and assessment of STEM learning in informal environments; and engage the public of all ages in learning STEM in informal environments.” (Source: AISL Program Solicitation 20-607, p. 1). This year, NSF intends to commit to between 58 and 85 awards for a total of up to $39 million to support six types of projects: (1) Pilots and Feasibility Studies, (2) Research in Service to Practice, (3) Innovations in Development, (4) Broad Implementation, (5) Literature Reviews, Syntheses, or Meta-Analyses, and (6) Conferences. (Source: AISL Program Solicitation 20-607, p. 1). Proposals must be submitted by 5PM local time on Tuesday, January 12th, 2021.
AISL projects develop innovative strategies for informal science learning, and build knowledge about what works, for whom, and under what circumstances. It’s not enough to create or sustain a promising museum exhibit, media product, or out-of-school program. Successful AISL proposals also include a robust plan for research and evaluation, and a commitment to sharing that work with public and professional audiences. Projects that broaden the participation of groups traditionally underrepresented or under-served in STEM fields are especially encouraged. Please see the RFP for solicitation-specific review criteria for broadening participation plans.
More information about the NSF AISL grant program can be found on NSF’s AISL page. Click here to find recently-funded AISL proposals. You can find additional helpful resources, including proposal webinar recordings and literature summaries, on the Center for Advancing Informal Science Education (CAISE)’s AISL Proposal Page.
Rockman et al has served as the third-party evaluator on 25 AISL projects over the last seven years. Based on our experiences, we’ve even compiled some tips around NSF proposal planning to get you started: 2019 and 2018 posts. If you are planning or considering an application for AISL and are seeking a research partner or evaluator, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your project and needs (info@rockman.com). We are always happy to share what we’ve learned to help you develop a strong proposal.