Project Grant 2314100

This Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation's STEM Education (CFDA 47.076) program provides funding of $1,992,484.00 to the Institute for Learning Innovation (ILI), a non-profit organization, to build the capacity of informal STEM learning providers to engage individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The key products and services to be delivered include: 1) developing a hybrid professional development model to train informal STEM educators on supporting individuals with ASD, 2) creating new approaches and evidence-based understanding for designing more accessible informal STEM learning experiences, and 3) establishing a collaborative community of practice for ISL educators and ASD experts to iteratively develop ASD-supportive museum learning strategies. The project aims to increase inclusion of individuals with ASD in mainstream informal STEM learning environments, train staff in ASD support techniques, and ultimately help individuals with ASD gain the skills, confidence, and motivation to engage in STEM activities. This award builds on prior work and will expand the effort to three additional metropolitan regions in Missouri, Florida, and Oklahoma. Relevant sub-awards are planned as part of this effort.