Research Office

NSF Advanced Informal STEM Learning (AISL)

Next due dates are:

November 07, 2018

November 06, 2019

NSF 17-573

NSF Advanced Informal STEM Learning (AISL) is now limited. See below.

Monday, August 13, 2018 LOI Intent deadline 5pm pacific standard time.  research.development@oregonstate.edu

Note the changes:

• The number of proposals for which an organization may be the lead is limited to three (3); and
• The number of proposals for which one can be PI/Co-PI is limited to three (3); and
• The minimum one-year budget amount is $75,000 for an organization in collaborative proposals uploaded as separate submissions from multiple organizations.

Interested - please email research.development@oregonstate.edu

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ORD LOI Due Date: Monday, August 13, 2018 - 5 pm PST.

NSf Due Date: November 07, 2018

• Institutional Limit: 3
• Limit Summary: An institution or organization may serve as lead on no more than three (3) proposals submitted to the November deadline. However, an institution or organization may partner as a subaward on other proposals submitted.

The Advancing Informal STEM Learning (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.

The AISL program supports 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.

In an effort to provide the highest level of excellence and viability for funding, a review process will be put in place if more than one proposal is submitted. The finalist will be asked to represent Oregon State University and to submit their proposal to the National Science Foundation-  program Advancing Informal STEM Learning (AISL) by the NSF letter of intent deadline.

Information:  email Research.Development@oregonstate.edu

General guidance for preparation of letters of intent to the Research Office:

COVER SHEET (1-2 pages) 

• Solicitation Name and Descriptive Title -  identify the AISL project type: Pilots and Feasibility Studies, Research in Service to Practice, Innovations in Development, Broad Implementation, or Conferences, Literature Reviews, Syntheses, or Meta-analyses, or Conferences. For Literature Reviews, Syntheses, or Meta-analyses, indicate which kind is being proposed.

• Project Summary: 3 or 4 sentences or bullet points that provide an overview of the objective of your proposed research, how you plan to do it, and the expected outcome.
• Unique Aspects: 3 or 4 sentences or bullet points that highlight how your research/approach is different/better.
• Peer Groups: Who else is doing something similar, why their discoveries are useful for you, and what discriminates you.
• Key PI/co-PIs: 5 or 6 sentences or bullet points that highlight team expertise as it relates to the project.
• Budget: Example: The total cost of the project is anticipated to be $ X, with $ Y being requested from the NSF. NSF funds will be used for: $ A for personnel; $ B for operations, and $ C for broader impacts/subcontracts etc.
• Justification for NSF support: One paragraph explaining why this research fits with the RFP and strategic goals of the NSF AISL Solicitation.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION (2 - 4 pages)

• Please note if this project is a resubmit or is brand new.
• Problem statement: Clear and concise statement of
  • 1) research question(s) and how the project will address the research question(s);
  • 2) what technical barriers need to be overcome to perform the research; and
  • 3) how the proposed research can lead to the advancement of research/knowledge in this area.
• Conceptual framework: Conceptual framework describing, for example, how the synthesis of various project components, approaches, and participant expertise are linked together to address the problem of interest. Graphics may be used.
• Proposed activities: Describe the project to be undertaken and provide the technical specifications of the research activities and timelines that will be undertaken.
• Broader Impact/Metrics for Success:
  • What metrics are the most appropriate for evaluating the success of the proposed project (e.g., peer-reviewed papers, policy-directed efforts, databases, models, development of new resources, etc.)?
  • If successful, who would most likely use the knowledge or tools developed?
  • Describe the outcome you anticipate from the research. (Remember your initial motivation for wanting to do this)
  • The statement on broader impacts should describe the potential of the proposed activity to benefit society and contribute to the achievement of specific, desired societal outcomes.

Suggested Reviewers: (1 page) Optional – but as you write envision who might be a reviewer of your proposal or the Program Officer.

Reviewer 1: Area of expertise

Name

Title

Contact

State why you think this person would be a good reviewer.

Submit electronically as a PDF document to: Research.Development@oregonstate.edu