Knowledge From the Field: STEM

Research Highlights

Identify research that can inform your grantmaking using summaries prepared by the Foundation Center.

Strengthening Science Education: The Power of More Time to Deepen Inquiry and Engagement

National Center on Time and Learning
Traphagen, Kathleen
November 2011

Examines declining school time for and proficiency in science. Offers case studies of public elementary and middle schools with expanded days designed to improve science instruction and analyzes impact on test scores, attendance, and teacher satisfaction.

Funder(s): Noyce Foundation

Does Diagnostic Math Testing Improve Student Learning?

Public Policy Institute of California
Betts, Julian R.; Youjin Hahn; Andrew C. Zau
October 2011

Examines how mandated and voluntary course-specific math tests that give quick, detailed feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of individual students and entire classes affect student achievement. Outlines district- and state-level policy implications.

Funder(s): Donald Bren Foundation

Growing Opportunity: A Two-Year Update on The Opportunity Equation: Transforming Mathematics and Science Education for Citizenship and the Global Economy

Carnegie Corporation of New York - IAS Commission on Mathematics and Science Education
September 2011

Highlights progress on a 2009 report's call to mobilize for innovative, accountable math and science education for all; establish clear standards and effective assessments; improve teacher supply and leadership; and enhance school and system design.

Funder(s): Carnegie Corporation of New York

Project Exploration: 10-year Retrospective Program Evaluation

Project Exploration
Chi, Bernadette; Juna Z. Snow
December 2010

Assesses the impact of a program giving low-income students of color hands-on science experience on science capacity, youth development, and engagement in communities of practice. Examines practices that support science learning by underrepresented youth.

Funder(s): Noyce Foundation

A Priority for California's Future: Science for Students

Center for the Future of Teaching and Learning
November 2010

Based on a survey and focus groups, examines Californians' views on science education, including priority relative to other subjects, timing, amount, quality of instruction, adequacy of resources, and conditions required for improvement.

Funder(s): S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation

Expanding Underrepresented Minority Participation: America's Science and Technology Talent at the Crossroads

National Academy of Sciences
October 2010

Recommends investing in research, innovation, and a dynamic science and engineering workforce with the participation of underrepresented minorities. Suggests ways to improve access, motivation, affordability, and supports to raise degree completion rates.

Funder(s): Carnegie Corporation of New York

The Opportunity Equation: Transforming Mathematics and Science Education for Citizenship and the Global Economy

Carnegie Corporation of New York - IAS Commission on Mathematics and Science Education
June 2009

Discusses recommendations for and promising examples of fundamental reforms to raise math and science levels and increase opportunity, such as clearer, higher standards; better management of teaching talent; and more effective school and system designs.

Funder(s): Carnegie Corporation of New York

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Accountability American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Arts Education College and Career Preparation Digital Learning Early Learning Educational Standards Literacy/Reading Skills Low-Performing Schools Out-of-School Time Rural Education STEM Teacher Quality and Leadership

Top Funders and Recipients

Top Foundations Funding for STEM in U.S. Public Elementary/Secondary Education

Top Recipients of Foundation Funding for STEM in U.S. Public Elementary/Secondary Education

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Resource Links

PubHub connects you to annotated research reports, case studies, and more on educational standards. Read more»

Key Statistics

View charts illustrating elementary/secondary education's share of overall foundation giving and how funding within the field breaks down.
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Related Resources

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