Authentic Experiences Using Data with NASA's Universe of Learning

The NASA's Universe of Learning (NASA's UoL) project creates and delivers science-driven, audience-driven resources and experiences designed to engage and immerse learners of all ages and backgrounds in exploring the universe for themselves. The competitively-selected project represents a unique partnership between the Space Telescope Science Institute, Caltech/IPAC, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, and Sonoma State University, and is part of the NASA Science Mission Directorate Science Activation program. Project objectives include increasing learners' understanding of the process of science and key topics in astronomy, and increasing the role of NASA Astrophysics science experts as partners. The Authentic Ground-based observing and Research Experience (AGRE) working group aims to connect NASA's UoL resources to build authentic data experiences. These resources include MicroObservatory, the Global Telescope Network, Project PANOPTES, and AstroPix, in addition to the wealth of NASA astrophysics data within NASA archives. By providing multiple ways to get involved and participate in the practice of science, the AGRE group is building pathways for learners to engage with authentic data and take their learning to deeper levels of the scientific practice. The NASA's UoL AGRE team engages with a diverse group of subject matter experts (scientists and engineers) from across the NASA Astrophysics Physics of the Cosmos, Cosmic Origins, and Exoplanet Exploration themes to ensure content accuracy and provide direct connections to STEM role models. In addition, the team partners with national networks of informal learning institutions to support opportunities for learners from all backgrounds to participate. This presentation is based on work performed as part of the NASA's Universe of Learning project and is supported by NASA under cooperative agreement award number NNX16AC65A.