The Office of Naval Research (ONR) seeks proposals as provided under the authority set forth in subdivision (1) of subsection 2192 (b) of title 10 in support of education programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The ONR mission of STEM is to: foster an interest in, knowledge of, and study in science, technology, engineering and mathematics nationwide to ensure an educated and well-prepared naval and national STEM workforce.
In support of this mission, the following four investment priorities have been identified:
- Inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. [Programs that fall mostly within Grades K-10];
- Engage students in STEM-related hands-on learning activities with Naval relevance. [Programs that fall mostly within Grades 3-12] ;
- Educate students to be well prepared for STEM employment in the Navy and Marine Corps as well as supporting academic institutions and/or the Naval contractor community. [Programs that fall mostly within Higher Education] ;
- Employ, retain and develop Naval STEM professionals. [Programs that fall mostly within Higher Education and Professional Development]
For more information on these priorities, please review the Naval STEM Strategic Plan at www.onr.navy.mil
The purpose of this announcement is to receive proposals in support of the Naval Strategic Plan and the Office of Naval Research's scientific outreach and education mission to develop its next generation of scientists and engineers. The objective of these activities will be to:
- Establish successful, sustainable, and affordable long-term, national Navy-sponsored programs targeted at elementary and secondary schools as well as institutions of higher learning.
- Increase the awareness of and exposure to Naval relevant STEM content, research experience and career options through education and outreach programs.
- Establish and maintain a pipeline of students, particularly women and under-represented minorities, who will apply for and participate in Naval education and outreach programs.
- Increase the number of domestic students (particularly students from under-represented groups) completing STEM degrees through enhancing student interest and attitudes toward science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
- Strengthen peer, family, and school support for STEM programs.
- Ensure long-term inclusiveness of women and minorities in Naval science and technology programs.
- Increase the number of students taking college-prep science and mathematics courses.
- Strengthen the resources and training offered to STEM teachers.
Additional activities supported may include providing financial assistance to organizations supporting STEM activities, providing funding and support for national competitions by arranging for DoD personnel to participate as judges and presenters, providing support for STEM education and outreach conferences and supporting teacher STEM education and training initiatives. Stipends for teachers undertaking professional training in connection with these activities may be supported as well as funding for the acquisition of materials and resources needed to launch, implement, assess, and improve the program. Additionally, evaluations of existing Navy/DoD program efforts and strategies to maximize marketing program opportunities to affected populations may be supported. ONR encourages the project results to be published in appropriate academic journals at the end of the period of performance.