Science Learning+ supports research to explore and understand the power of informal learning experiences inside and outside of school.

Learning can happen anywhere and at any time. Science Learning+  aims to make a transformational step to improve the knowledge base and practice of informal science experiences, so as to better understand, strengthen and coordinate their vital role in science engagement and learning.

Science Learning+ includes funding for collaborative projects involving both researchers and practitioners of informal learning. Individuals from other academic fields are also invited to contribute to building understanding – including researchers in science education, disciplinary sciences (such as mathematicians, biologists, engineers or computer scientists), social sciences, psychology, learning sciences and cognitive science. Science Learning+ grants will be funded in two phases:

  • Phase 1: Planning Grants (2014). Short-term Planning Grants of up to £70 000 to enable groups of people and organisations in the UK, the Republic of Ireland and/or the USA to meet with each other and develop ideas and strategies.
  • Phase 2: Partnership Grants (2015). Longer-term research programmes of approximately £1.5 million for up to five years (possibly more for long-term longitudinal studies).

The deadline for Phase 1 is 10 July 2014. Applicants in the UK or the Republic of Ireland should apply through the Wellcome Trust. For more information about this initiative and how to apply, visit www.wellcome.ac.uk/SLplus.

Applicants in the USA should apply through the National Science Foundation at http://nsf.gov/funding/

Please note that we will be running a networking event about informal learning in May 2014. More information will be sent out about this event in due course.

You can keep up to date via Twitter using #SLplus

Science Learning+ is an international initiative established in partnership with the US-based National Science Foundation and the UK-based Economic and Social Research Council, and in collaboration with the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation the MacArthur Foundation and the Noyce Foundation.

Posted on behalf of the Wellcome Trust Education and Learning Team.