The NSF Informal Science Education (ISE) program invests in projects that develop and implement informal learning experiences designed to increase interest, engagement, and understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by individuals of all ages and backgrounds, as well as projects that advance the theory and practice of informal science education. Projects may target either public audiences or professionals whose work directly affects informal STEM learning. ISE projects are expected to demonstrate strategic impact, collaboration, and innovation.

The ISE program invests in projects that directly target public audiences for self-directed STEM learning, such as permanent and traveling exhibitions; films; television and radio series; web-based projects; citizen science programs; and youth and community programs. In addition, ISE supports projects that target professionals to further knowledge and the implementation of practice, such as through research studies, conferences, formation of networks, and professional development; these projects should strengthen the infrastructure for informal science learning by the public. (Note that this program does NOT fund operational or capital expenses, purchase of equipment or vehicles, school field trips, camps, science fairs or competitions, or projects whose primary focus is health or medicine.)

Because MU is limited in the number of applications it can make for this program, letters of intent must be submitted to the Office of Research, 203 Jesse Hall, no later than 5:00 pm Friday, February 11, 2005 (for the March competition) or August 5, 2005 (for the September competition).  Letters of intent shall be limited to 3 pages and include a project summary that succinctly describes the public or professional target audience, intended public or professional impact, means for evaluating impact, intended strategic impact, and anticipated budget.                  

URL for more information: http://www.nsf.gov/pubs/2005/nsf05544/nsf05544.htm

This notice is being sent to deans, directors, and chairs in science and technology disciplines. If there are others who may be interested, please forward to them.