# CAREER: Investigating how informal STEM educators negotiate, redesign, and repair organizational and community infrastructures to support innovations in learning with computing

> **NSF 04002526DB NSF STEM Education** · University of Colorado at Boulder (CO) · $1,389,237

## Abstract

Informal learning environments such as museums, libraries, and community organizations are important settings that provide innovative learning experiences to develop young people's interests and skills with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and computing. Yet despite the increasing educational opportunities, there are barriers to meaningful participation for all youth. Research suggests that attention to the structural conditions of learning environments can advance understanding of what enables or hinders youths' successful learning experiences with STEM and computing. These structural conditions not only include materials such as tools and space but also human capital (e.g., informal educators, staff, and volunteers) which plays an instrumental role in designing learning experiences. As new STEM and technology-based opportunities emerge, educators working in informal learning environments must navigate and re-design the material, social, and knowledge infrastructures of their organizations and communities. This can include curating new materials, engaging in professional development, navigating institutional resources and policies to implement these opportunities, and connecting more effectively with community organizations and leaders who invite youth and families to these experiences. The decisions that educators make and how they implement them have a consequential impact on youth and families' access and engagement with these learning experienc

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2441997
- **Awardee organization:** University of Colorado at Boulder (CO)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** SPVKK1RC2MZ3
- **PI:** Ricarose Roque
- **Primary program:** 04002526DB NSF STEM Education
- **All programs:** CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev
- **Estimated total:** $1,389,237
- **Funds obligated:** $1,389,237
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/15/2025 → 08/31/2030

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2441997

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2441997, CAREER: Investigating how informal STEM educators negotiate, redesign, and repair organizational and community infrastructures to support innovations in learning with computing. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2441997. Licensed CC0.

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