In an explanatory statement accompanying the fiscal year 2010 omnibus appropriations act, the National Science Foundation, (NSF) was directed, in part, to convene a panel of experts to survey preK-12 schools that are highly successful in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and submit a report of findings and recommendations. Securing better evidence on which schools are highly successful in STEM, and why, will help the nation. It will also help NSF focus investments across the agency in more strategic ways and support the scale-up of those strategies and approaches that will likely lead to successful outcomes.
From Report...
In response to the congressional request, NSF funded the National Research Council's (NRC) Board on Science Education and Board on Testing and Assessment to identify the evidence on successful STEM education in K-12 schools in terms of teaching, instructional resources, and education system strategies, and make recommendations. The NRC's report, Successful K-12 STEM Education: Identifying Effective Approaches in Science Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, resulted from the work of an expert committee, a series of commissioned papers, and a review of research on STEM-focused schools, effective STEM practices, and effective schooling.
...to Action
This site provides information and resources related to NSF-funded innovations that highlight promising practices and tools in support of effective STEM education in schools and programs; in addition, a series of events are planned to take place throughout the year and across the country, beginning with an initiative launch event in Philadelphia on September 19, 2011. This initiative is designed for those involved in K-12 education: policymakers; school and district decision-makers; local, state, and federal government agencies; curriculum developers; educators; and advocacy groups.
