Research and Evaluation for Excellence and Equity in STEM Education

The 2027 National Survey of Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Engineering Education (NSSME+)

Organization(s): Horizon Research, Inc., Westat Inc.
Funding agency: National Science Foundation
Program: DRK-12
HRI Role: Research

Project Description

The NSSME+ has collected data on the status of K–12 STEM education in the nation at regular intervals since 1977. The 2027 NSSME+, the seventh iteration of the study since its inception, will continue monitoring the status of science, mathematics, engineering, and computer science education in the U.S. The study, conducted by Horizon Research, Inc. with assistance from Westat, will examine policies and practices related to STEM education, including the extent to which instruction currently models effective, evidence-based teaching practices, and factors that influence teachers’ decisions about content and pedagogy. The study will also attend to factors that contribute to the under-representation of some groups in STEM, further adding to general knowledge about ways to broaden participation.

Award Abstract

Research Purpose

The 2027 NSSME+ addresses the following research questions:

  1. What are the characteristics of the computer science/engineering/mathematics/science teaching force in terms of race, gender, age, content background, beliefs about teaching and learning, and perceptions of preparedness?
  2. What instructional practices are used in computer science, engineering, mathematics, and science instruction?
  3. How and to what extent are recent developments such as data science, artificial intelligence, and societal challenges permeating computer science, engineering, mathematics, and science instruction?
  4. What are the most commonly used instructional materials (e.g., textbooks/programs, open education resources, personalized learning systems) and how are they used? 
  5. What influences teachers’ decisions about content and pedagogy?
  6. What formal and informal opportunities do computer science/‌engineering/‌mathematics/‌science teachers have for ongoing development of their knowledge and skills?
  7. How are resources for computer science/engineering/mathematics/science education, including well-prepared teachers and course offerings, distributed among schools in different types of communities and different socioeconomic levels?

Project Links
https://horizon-research.com/NSSME/

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