Discovery Research PreK-12

The Discovery Research PreK-12 (DRK-12) program is administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under the Directorate for STEM Education. This program is designed to support research and development that improves STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education from preschool through 12th grade. The DRK-12 initiative emphasizes high-quality, equitable learning experiences for all students and supports teacher effectiveness across all STEM fields. The program aims to build foundational and applied knowledge concerning STEM learning and teaching. DRK-12 encourages proposals that integrate research with practice and promote collaboration among researchers, educators, and community stakeholders. The program emphasizes innovative approaches to professional development, curriculum design, instructional technology, and assessment methods. Projects must produce evidence-based outcomes that support the broader education community and contribute to educational theory and practical application. DRK-12 accepts proposals within two primary strands: Learning and Teaching. Learning Strand projects focus on improving student understanding and engagement with STEM, while Teaching Strand projects target teacher development and instructional practice. Additional project types supported include Exploratory, Design and Development, Impact, Implementation and Improvement, Measurement and Assessment, Synthesis, Partnership Development, and Workshops/Conferences. Proposals must follow the NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG). Letters of Intent and preliminary proposals are not required. Full proposals may be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov. All proposals must adhere to submission requirements, including comprehensive project descriptions, budget justifications, data management plans, and dissemination strategies. Evaluation mechanisms must be detailed to ensure effectiveness and accountability. The anticipated funding for FY2024 is approximately $50 million, with an estimated 50 to 60 awards. Funding levels vary by project type, ranging from $100,000 for Partnership Development to $5 million for Level III research over up to five years. Eligibility is open to organizations listed in the PAPPG, such as higher education institutions and nonprofits, but unaffiliated individuals may not apply. No limits exist on the number of proposals per organization or principal investigator. For assistance, applicants may contact the program office at DRLDRK12@nsf.gov or call (703) 292-8620. The proposal deadline is the second Wednesday in November annually, with the next deadline falling on November 8, 2023. Award announcements and project timelines follow NSF’s standard procedures, and all funded projects are subject to regular reporting and evaluation processes.