America COMPETES Act's effect on NASA's Education and Public Outreach Programs

Abstract

NASA's Education and Public Outreach program performances have historically been poorly evaluated. The programs are fragmented and difficult to track which contributes to the difficulties faced by the United States' struggling education system. In response, the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education and Science Reauthorization Act of 2010 (America COMPETES) was passed in an effort to streamline federal efforts in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education (STEM) and keep the American technical workforce competitive in the global market.America COMPETES' impact on NASA's role in STEM education made little positive changes. The Act's requirements perpetuate misguided STEM education evaluation methods. Funds appropriation marginalize NASA from meaningful K-12 education interactions. Portions of the implementation steps are counter-productive to NASA's public image.