Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT)

Overview

In support of NSF’s goal to create a more diverse STEM workforce, the STEM Education (EDU) and Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP) directorates are launching the Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT) program to establish new pathways for diverse learners into careers in emerging technology fields.

The ExLENT program aims to connect companies, governments, agencies, schools, professional organizations, and/or non-profits in order to provide individuals the experiential STEM learning opportunities needed to accelerate the Nation’s innovation capacity. Given the breadth of age and educational/professional experiences of potential learners, there will be no “one-size fits all” requirement for this program. Experiential learning opportunities supported by ExLENT can serve a broad range of learners including secondary school youth and adults at any stage of career development. Further, proposed experiential learning activities can range from fully immersive experiences, such as internships, to extensive course-based activities that are constructed by (or driven by) workplace partner input to approximate real-world experiences. 
The ExLENT program seeks to fund new and/or existing cross-sectoral partnerships to design engaging activities that provide individuals with (1) the opportunity to gain new skills and (2) the resources necessary to successfully navigate a career path into emerging technology fields, whether they are exploring new careers, striving toward career entry, or seeking to upskill or reskill their capabilities. Proposals should leverage evidence-based best practices in experiential learning to attract diverse learners to emerging technology careers; establish pathways into emerging technology fields for individuals historically underrepresented in STEM fields; and to further develop and hone the talent of workers in these rapidly evolving fields. Successful proposals will outline a comprehensive program curriculum that includes:

• Experiential learning opportunities that provide participants with an enhanced understanding of the emerging technology landscape and training in the STEM entrepreneurial and technical skills that increase their employability.
• Workplace driven career exploration activities that allow participants varied pathways into, and job opportunities in, emerging technology fields.
• Mentorship to support participants’ professional development and pursuit of careers in emerging technology fields, providing them with paths beyond the ExLENT program.
• Establishment of a participant cohort designed to help participants develop a STEM career identity and a sense of community within the emerging technology fields.
• Intentional support in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility for all stakeholders to create environments that value diverse perspectives critical for innovation and that promote a competitive, resilient emerging technology workforce.

ExLENT Proposal Tracks

Recognizing that the familiarity with (and preparedness for) a career in an emerging technology field varies widely, this solicitation provides three tracks to best support the broad range of learners:

1. Pivots
2. Beginnings
3. Explorations

Regardless of track, proposals should identify the type(s) of participants they seek to support and outline the appropriate training, support, and mentorship activities to be provided for the intended participants (aligned with participant age and level of education/professional experience). Proposals should also include mechanisms to address barriers (e.g., economic, social, behavioral, and occupational) so that participants can fully contribute to and benefit from the economy of the future.

Track: Pivots
The Pivots track aims to attract individuals not currently enrolled in post-secondary educational programs, and have acquired useful skills such as time management, communication, and teamwork in non-emerging technology careers. This may include participants who require upskilling to work in emerging technology fields. Participants benefitting from this track should be highly motivated to change their career trajectory into an emerging technology field. Proposed projects should provide participants with experiential learning opportunities that build skills and competencies necessary for current professionals to pivot into careers in emerging technology fields.

Track: Beginnings
The Beginnings track aims to provide individuals possessing some existing STEM competencies (e.g., those with stackable certificates in STEM or those enrolled in associate’s degree programs, etc.) with experiential learning opportunities that deepen knowledge and skills in emerging technology fields. Proposed projects should enable participants to pursue or advance their career in an emerging technology field.

Track: Explorations

The Explorations track aims to provide individuals with limited or no specialized STEM education the inspiration and opportunity to explore the potential of a career path in emerging technology fields. Proposals submitted to this track should focus on a wide range of participants from diverse backgrounds and may include those enrolled in traditional education pathways (e.g., secondary school, college, and/or military). Alternatively, a proposal might focus on participants who are not enrolled in a traditional educational pathway (i.e., self-learners, members of incubators) who are inclined to explore hands-on learning and development opportunities in emerging technology fields.

• Anticipated Type of Award: Cooperative Agreement
• Estimated Number of Awards: 25-35