Doc - GPS-Based STEM Education Curriculum - MRAS

The Department of Commerce (DOC), through the General Services Administration (GSA), is seeking professional services to develop a comprehensive STEM education curriculum for middle school students. This initiative is spearheaded by the National Coordination Office for Space-Based Position, Navigation, and Timing (NCO) under the Office of Space Commerce. The primary goal of this project is to enhance student interest and proficiency in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by using the Global Positioning System (GPS) as a foundational educational tool. By integrating GPS concepts into STEM learning, this curriculum aims to demonstrate real-world applications of STEM principles, thereby fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among students.

The scope of work involves several key tasks that the contractor must undertake. Firstly, contractors will be required to gain a thorough understanding of the fundamental STEM principles related to GPS satellites and their applications. Following this foundational knowledge acquisition, they will develop an educational curriculum that effectively leverages these GPS concepts to teach various STEM topics. The curriculum must align with national education standards and support the broader national STEM strategy. Additionally, contractors are responsible for producing teaching materials that can be used in classrooms across the country.

The project is designed with specific goals in mind: increasing student engagement with STEM subjects at an early age and providing clear pathways towards potential careers in these fields. By utilizing GPS as an engaging entry point into complex scientific topics such as calculating distances using rate and time, understanding electromagnetic waves, or exploring spatial geometry the curriculum seeks to make these subjects accessible and relevant to students' everyday lives. Furthermore, it aims to illuminate potential career paths within STEM industries by showcasing practical applications of these skills.

Upon completion, the developed curriculum materials will be widely disseminated by the U.S. Government for use in educational institutions nationwide and will also be available online at www.gps.gov. This ensures broad accessibility and integration into existing educational frameworks while supporting educators in delivering high-quality STEM education that inspires future generations.