Improving science training for middle school students using interactive technology
Official title: Scaling health and bioscience training technology to informal education
Funded at Discovery Collective, INC. · NIH-10942009 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about making science fun and easier to understand for middle school kids by using a cool digital program called Model It!, which helps them learn through hands-on activities and experiments after school.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Discovery Collective, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lincoln, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 16, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $906,792 |
| NIH project number | 1R44GM154971-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10942009 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are middle school students aged 10-14 who are enrolled in after-school programs.
✕Less likely to help
Students outside the age range of 10-14 or those not participating in after-school programs may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This project focuses on enhancing science education for middle school students by developing an interactive digital media product called Model It!. The program aims to teach computational modeling and simulation skills in after-school settings, making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for students in grades 5-8. By utilizing digital devices, students will participate in hands-on activities that promote understanding through repetition and experimentation. The initiative seeks to create a supportive learning environment that adapts to the dynamic nature of after-school programs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve science literacy and engagement among middle school students, preparing them for future studies in STEM fields.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using interactive digital media to enhance learning in educational settings, indicating a promising approach for this initiative.
Where this research is happening
-
Discovery Collective, INC.
Lincoln, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Helikar, Resa Marie — Discovery Collective, INC.
- Study coordinator: Helikar, Resa Marie
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.