Science of Broadening Participation (SBP) - Dear Colleague Letter: Stimulating Research Related to the Science of Broadening Participation

Overview

<div><em>*The posted deadline is arbitrary. Deadlines vary and are specific to the directorate and program through which the PI applies to this DCL.  </em></div> <div></div> <div>Building on previous investments, the Directorate for Social, Behavioral & Economic Sciences (SBE) and the Directorate for Education & Human Resources (EHR) announce their interest in continuing support of research related to the Science of Broadening Participation (SBP). The Science of Broadening Participation will employ the theories, methods, and analytic techniques of the social, behavioral, economic, and learning sciences to better understand the barriers that hinder and factors that enhance our ability to broaden participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and other sectors. The results of these efforts will inform approaches to increase the access and involvement of underrepresented groups in STEM and to strengthen our national STEM capabilities and competitive advantage. Ultimately, the SBP research will provide scientific evidence that STEM educators, STEM employers, and policy makers need to make informed decisions and to design effective programs and interventions.</div> <div></div> <div>In FY 2018, SBE and EHR will partner to support SBP research proposals that will contribute to the overall understanding of the positive and negative factors impacting the participation of underrepresented individuals in STEM education and careers. SBP research proposals may focus on factors such as the following:</div> <ul> <li>Institutional and organizational factors (e.g., studies of organizational, structural, cultural or climate factors that impact STEM participation)</li> <li>Cultural and social factors (e.g., studies of psychological or behavioral factors that affect STEM participation and achievement rates)</li> <li>Economic and policy-related factors (e.g., studies of economic factors that impact STEM participation and the relationship between broader participation and social innovation).                                                                                                          </li> </ul> <div></div> <div>Specific questions about an SBE or EHR program should be directed to the program director of the program. This is not a special competition or new program; proposals in response to this Dear Colleague Letter must meet the requirements and deadlines of the program to which they are submitted.</div>