KOSEN 한인과학기술자네트워크

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has a mandate to ensure the vitality of the United States in the scientific and technical enterprise. The goals of the Division of Human Resource Development (HRD), located in the Directorate for Education and Human Resources (EHIR), are directed toward this end by promoting activities to increase the participation of traditionally underrepresented communities in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology (SMET) education and careers. Within HRD, the Program for Persons with Disabilities (PPD) is committed to bringing about needed change in academic and professional climates, increasing the awareness and recognition of the needs and capabilities of students with disabilities, promoting the accessibility and appropriateness of instructional materials, media, and educational technologies, and increasing the availability of student enrichment resources including mentoring activities. In short, efforts are dedicated to changing the factors wherein neglect, paucity, and indirection historically have stifled the early interest in science and mathematics shown by students with disabilities, and that impeded the advancement of these individuals as they prepare themselves for careers in SMET fields. Organizations eligible to submit proposals to promote these goals include universities and colleges; nonprofit, nonacademic institutions (including museums, professional associations, and community-based organizations); state and local governments (including school districts); and for-profit research institutions and businesses. The Foundation encourages proposals that serve to build or strengthen alliances among eligible organizations. Although the Programs in HRD focus primarily on underrepresented communities, all NSF programs encourage proposals with a similar focus.