The U.S. National Science Foundation Division of Research on Learning in Formal & Informal Settings (DRL) invests in the improvement of STEM learning and teaching across all STEM disciplines in formal and informal environments.
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What we support
DRL supports research, development and evaluation of learning and teaching across all STEM disciplines in settings ranging from preK-12 schools to the Nation's science centers and museums. The division promotes lifelong access to high-quality STEM teaching and learning opportunities at all levels.
Core programs
DRL’s programs offer a set of complementary approaches for advancing research, development and field-based improvement strategies.
Discovery Research K-12 program
Supports research and development to enhance STEM learning and teaching for preK-12 students.
Advancing Informal STEM Learning
Supports research and practice in informal STEM learning settings, with a focus on engaging diverse audiences, increasing STEM participation and fostering a sense of belonging, particularly for historically excluded and underrepresented groups.
Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers
Supports applied research and development focused on increasing preK-12 students' interest in careers in information and communication technology and STEM through technology-based learning experiences.
Computer Science for All
Supports partnerships and research that helps equip high school teachers to teach computer science, K-8 teachers to incorporate computer science and computational thinking in their classes and school districts to create computing pathways across all grades.
EDU Core Research
Supports research on STEM education in one or more of three research areas: STEM learning and learning environments, broadening participation in STEM and STEM workforce development.
EDU Core Research: Building Capacity in STEM Education Research
Supports activities that will advance STEM education research, including professional development for researchers, institutional training on the use of cutting-edge research techniques and conferences.
Racial Equity in STEM Education
Supports projects focused on advancing racial equity in STEM education and workforce development that are led or co-developed by individuals and communities most impacted by the inequities caused by systemic racism.
Research on Innovative Technologies for Enhanced Learning
Supports early-stage research in emerging technologies such as AI, robotics and immersive or augmenting technologies for teaching and learning that respond to pressing needs in real-world educational environments.
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