Tier 1: Focused astrophysics program partnership between informal learning organization and community partner | Funding Level: $2,500-$5,000 | The Informal Learning network has developed over 40 astronomy program models over the past several years. These range from family astronomy events to summer camps and afterschool experiences. This funding opportunity is to support organizations in adopting, adapting, and refocusing one of these program models to better address the interests of a specific underserved community. Program implementations can be similar to past Informal Learning Network program models, but should be more deeply intentional in design for and with a particular community. Focus should be primarily on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). EXAMPLE: Partner with a local refugee community center. Work with the center to determine the needs and interests of their community. Then tailor an existing program model and implement it to meet the needs of their audience. Make sure this program model can be adaptable and address any new needs as they arise throughout the length of the program. | |
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Tier 2: Expanding the Network – growing community partnerships | Funding Level: $5,000-$10,000 (Over 1 or 2 years) Restricted to organizations that have previously received NASA’s UoL funding | Build capacity in your communities by leveraging the expertise at your organization. Establish a mini network in your community of organizations working to introduce NASA’s Universe of Learning content to a broader community. This mini-network should build on your existing knowledge of Informal Learning Network program models and content areas, and support others in your community in engaging with astrophysics content. EXAMPLE: Invite all art museums in the city for a two-day workshop. Teach astronomy content, and highlight two STEAM program models developed years 1-5, learn how to connect with host museums and NASA’s UoL subject matter experts. Following the workshop, the art museums are encouraged to put the workshop into practice - with support from workshop host and NASA’s UoL. Art museums that choose to run a program receive supplies from the host museum. EXAMPLE: Develop a program series with a local community program like Boys and Girls Club that involves multiple visits, or professional development for facilitators with Boys and Girls Club that culminates in a program that involves the museum. | |
Tier 3: Expanding the Network at larger scale | Funding Level: $10,000-$20,000 over two years Restricted to organizations that have previously received NASA’s UoL funding | Broaden the community of organizations participating in the NASA’s UoL Informal Learning Network. Establish a community or regional network that works together to reduce barriers to NASA’s UoL content and resources. This network should include broad perspectives in its efforts to expand pathways to engage with astrophysics content, and more broadly STEM fields. This network should collaborate and co-create with its community over time.
EXAMPLE: Convene a regional network of planetaria over the course of 2 years. Work to increase inclusivity in planetaria shows. Could bring planetaria and community organizations to work together on this (i.e., planetaria with Boys and Girls Clubs) |
*The NASA’s Universe of Learning program reserves the right to make partial selections based on budgetary and other considerations.