The Spencer Foundation has announced a call for applications for its Large Research Grants on Education Program, aimed at supporting innovative research projects that enhance educational practices and policies. With funding ranging from $125,000 to $500,000, this initiative invites researchers to explore diverse educational contexts and share their findings to impact the field significantly.
Key Takeaways
- Funding Range: $125,000 to $500,000 for projects lasting 1 to 5 years.
- Eligibility: Must be academic research focused on education; non-research activities are not eligible.
- Principal Investigators: Must hold a doctorate or have relevant experience in education research.
- International Applications: Open to proposals from the U.S. and worldwide, but submissions must be in English.
Overview of the Program
The Spencer Foundation’s Large Research Grants on Education Program is designed to support rigorous academic research that contributes to the improvement of education. The foundation recognizes that learning occurs in various settings, including classrooms, workplaces, and community contexts. Researchers are encouraged to consider how their findings can be utilized in practice and policy-making.
Funding Information
The program offers substantial funding to support research projects:
- Minimum Grant Amount: $125,000
- Maximum Grant Amount: $500,000
- Project Duration: 1 to 5 years
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the grant, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Research Focus: Proposals must be for academic research projects specifically studying education.
- Exclusions: Activities such as program evaluations, curriculum development, and scholarships are not eligible.
- Principal Investigators: Must have an earned doctorate or equivalent experience in education research.
- Affiliation: The PI must be affiliated with a non-profit or public institution that can administer the grant.
Review Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on several key aspects:
- Significance of the Project: Importance of the research topic and quality of research questions.
- Connection to Research and Theory: How well the proposal engages with existing literature and theory.
- Research Design: Quality and appropriateness of the research methodology.
- Budget and Timeline: Adequacy of the proposed budget and project timeline.
- Project Team: Capability of the research team to complete the study and disseminate findings.
- Dissemination Plans: Strategies for sharing research results with broader audiences, including policymakers and practitioners.
Application Process
Interested researchers should prepare their proposals carefully, ensuring they align with the program’s objectives and criteria. All proposals must be submitted in English, and budgets should be presented in U.S. dollars. The deadline for applications is set for January 14, 2025, providing ample time for teams to develop their research ideas.
Conclusion
The Spencer Foundation’s Large Research Grants on Education Program represents a significant opportunity for researchers dedicated to advancing educational practices. By fostering innovative research, the foundation aims to contribute to meaningful improvements in education across various contexts. Researchers are encouraged to apply and make a lasting impact in the field of education.
