Award
National Institute of General Medical Sciences 5R25GM154384-02
PreK STEM Playgroups: Empowering our Youngest Learners and their Caregivers for Confidence and Competence in STEM Learning
Recipient
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Award Amount
$264,504.00
Ceiling
$264,504.00
Awarded
August 21, 2025
Identifier
5R25GM154384-02
This award funds a project to develop and assess STEM playgroups for young children and their caregivers, aiming to increase confidence and competence in STEM learning and make resources freely available to enhance STEM education accessibility.
Description
The proposed R25 Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) is a partnership between a research institution and an informal learning space to conduct STEM focused playgroups with a goal of empowering caregivers of young children to implement high-quality learning activities within their daily routines and activities. The project will examine preliminary efficacy as well as caregiver-perceived changes in confidence and competence related to embedding STEM learning opportunities. Findings may be used to inform a model for inclusive STEM playgroups in informal learning spaces that has the potential to be widely adopted and increase access to STEM learning, contributing to future success in STEM careers for all children.