NSF ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers
NSF funds technology-rich STEM programs including coding, robotics, physical computing, and AI for Florida students and teachers.
About This Grant
The NSF ITEST program funds innovative technology experiences for K-12 students and teachers. It supports programs that use technology, including physical computing, robotics, coding, and AI tools, as central learning experiences. Florida universities and nonprofits have a strong track record with ITEST awards.
ITEST is particularly well-suited for programs that integrate Forward Education physical computing kits into a research study or structured curriculum development effort. The program looks for novel approaches to technology-integrated STEM learning with evidence of student engagement and interest in STEM careers.
View NSF ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and TeachersEligibility
- Universities and research organizations in Florida
- Partnerships with K-12 schools or districts required
- Nonprofits with strong technology education program experience
- Projects with robust research design and evaluation
Allowable Uses
- Technology-rich curriculum development and implementation
- Physical computing, robotics, and AI literacy integration
- Teacher professional development in technology
- Research and evaluation of technology education programs
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- micro:bit Starter Kit — Physical computing for CS education. Aligns to Florida CS standards for computational thinking and programming at grades K-8.
- MicroChat AI Literacy Kit — AI literacy curriculum for middle and high school. Addresses AI and data literacy across Florida CS standards.
- Coding for Good Kit — Project-based coding curriculum with real-world connections. Strong alignment to Florida standards.
- micro:bit Robotics Kit — Robotics and physical computing for grades 5-12. Supports CS standards across computational thinking and programming.
Keep in Mind
ITEST is specifically about using technology as the learning experience, not just supporting it. Make physical computing or AI central to your proposal.
ITEST looks for programs that build student interest in technology careers. Include career awareness activities and mentorship components.
University partners strengthen ITEST proposals, especially for the research and evaluation components.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ITEST for?
ITEST funds programs where technology is central to student learning, particularly programs that build interest in technology and STEM careers.
How long are ITEST grants?
Typically 3-5 years. Projects must demonstrate a clear research plan and multi-year implementation.
Does ITEST fund physical computing kits?
Yes. Hardware that is central to the technology learning experience is allowable.
How can Forward Education help?
We provide curriculum alignment documents mapped to Florida standards, pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support. Contact us before you apply.
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Explore more Florida funding resources
View all Florida AI & CS grants →Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents — Florida CS Standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing — classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support — documentation for grant applications
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