Skip To Content Skip To Left Navigation
NSF Logo Search GraphicGuide To Programs GraphicImage Library GraphicSite Map GraphicHelp GraphicPrivacy Policy Graphic
OLPA Header Graphic
 
     
 

NSF Fact Sheet

 

Media contact:

 Bill Noxon

 (703) 292-8070

 wnoxon@nsf.gov

The "Drivers" of NSF's Urban System Reform

Reform drivers are keys to accountability. Successful systemic reform in math and science education involves six critical elements. These "drivers" measure the likelihood that school systems will succeed in efforts to improve K-12 mathematics and science education. While some school systems may emphasize one or more drivers, the most successful reform programs include a commitment to all of them.

Process drivers. These elements of reform focus on sustainable success in changing the approach to teaching and learning mathematics and science, including:

  • comprehensive, standards-based curriculum and/or instructional materials that are aligned with instruction practices and assessments that are available to all students;
  • coherent, consistent policies that support broad-based reform of K-12 mathematics and science;
  • resources - fiscal, intellectual and material - concentrated fully on formal and informal science and mathematics education that upgrades and continually improves learning;
  • a broad-based support from parents, policymakers, institutions of higher education, business and industry, foundations and other segments of the community.

Outcome drivers. These elements are centered on the students and their learning achievements, including:

  • an accumulation of evidence that is broad and deep of high-level course-taking, standards-based achievements, test scores and other indices measured against performance baselines;
  • an improved overall performance by all students, and a reduced "achievement gap" between majority and underserved students.

For more information, see: http://www.ehr.nsf.gov/EHR/ESR/driver.asp

See also:

  • NSF press release, Big City Students Make Gains in Math and Science, Report Says
  • Backgrounder, Urban Systemic Programs (USP): Beyond Experiments

 

 
 
     
 

 
National Science Foundation
Office of Legislative and Public Affairs
4201 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, Virginia 22230, USA
Tel: 703-292-8070
FIRS: 800-877-8339 | TDD: 703-292-5090
 

NSF Logo Graphic