NSF Awards $11.5 Million to Boost N.J. Science
June 14, 2010: The National Science Foundation has awarded a competitive, five-year, $11.5 million grant to the Center for Innovation in Engineering and Science Education (CIESE) at Stevens Institute of Technology with the aim of enhancing lower and middle school science in 12 districts across New Jersey.
The program, called the Partnership to Improve Student Achievement in Physical Sciences: Integrating STEM Approaches, will employ contemporary societal challenges, such as climate change and energy consumption, as vehicles to engage and motivate teachers and their students in science and engineering.
The grant was awarded to CIESE, which is partnering with St. Peter’s College, Columbia University/Teachers College, the New Jersey Department of Education, the National Science Resources Center (NSRC), and Nyre & Associates education research consultants.
Over five years, 400 Grade 3-8 teachers from partner districts will participate in coursework leading to a 15-credit graduate certificate program in science and related professional development to strengthen their science content knowledge. In addition, teachers will improve their understanding of how students learn STEM subjects, their use of science inquiry and engineering design, and their ability to facilitate student learning of 21st century skills such as creativity, innovation, problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. Teachers will receive monthly classroom coaching visits, participate in online learning communities, and earn financial rewards to support their professional growth and improve their classroom practice.
George Korfiatis, Stevens Provost and University Vice President, says “…this grant will have a significant impact in shaping the technical and innovation capacity of the next generation of teachers and students.”
UPDATE, August 6. 2010: CIESE has also been awarded a three-year, $1.7 million Mathematics and Science Partnership grant from the New Jersey Department of Education’s Office of Mathematics and Science Education. The program focuses on the preparation of K-12 teachers in mathematics and science to serve as the primary vehicle to enhance student achievement, interest and participation in STEM fields.
Filed under: K-12 Education News
Tags: National Science Foundation, STEM education, Teacher Training
