Collaborative Research: LIGO-SEC Partnership Ripple Effects - Engaging Communities for Lifelong Learning Impacts

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $971,304 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This award is a component of a collaborative effort to fund the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) Science Education Center (SEC) Partnership. This project is a combined effort with multiple partners: LIGO Livingston, Southern University of Baton Rouge (SUBR), and San Francisco’s Exploratorium. The project is focused on scientific outreach to the public, docent training, and teacher professional development, involving LIGO activities in Louisiana. The partnership plans to engage undergraduates and K-12 students in STEEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Education, and Mathematics). Previous awards helped create the SEC building, with a classroom and a large exhibit hall, with exhibits developed by the Exploratorium and staffed by SUBR student docents and a (separately funded) professional staff. The multilayered partnership, a cutting-edge research facility, and a renowned informal science center created a model for future collaboration models. With the expansion of this partnership, the model is extended, and research on the effects of these extensive collaborations can provide information for future attempts at leveraging the resources of research laboratories for educational purposes. SUBR undergraduates will be engaged as docents and role models in school and community outreach led by LIGO’s Science Education Center in consultation with the Exploratorium. Docents will facilitate field trips to LIGO, conduct activities at family math and science

Key facts

NSF award ID
2513557
Awardee
The Baton Rouge Area Foundation (LA)
SAM.gov UEI
FA42K2FAAFC8
PI
Joseph A Giaime
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Windows on the Universe (WoU), EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION
Estimated total
$971,304
Funds obligated
$971,304
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028