About the NSRC
Staff Directory
Sponsoring Institutions
Advisory Board
Outreach Activities
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NSRC
Sponsoring Institutions
The National Science Resources Center (NSRC) is operated by
the Smithsonian Institution and the National
Academies--the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Engineering,
the Institute of Medicine, and the National
Research Council to improve
the learning and teaching of science in the nation's schools.
The Academies and the Smithsonian provide the NSRC
with direct access to the highest quality research and scientific and
engineering expertise to inform its services and products.
Smithsonian Institution
In the early part of the 19th century, James Smithson
bequeathed his fortune to found the Smithsonian Institution "for
the increase and diffusion of knowledge." The Smithsonian fulfills
that mission in many ways, including promoting innovation, research, and
discovery in science. In addition, the Smithsonian is deeply committed
to its outreach to the public.
Educators, parents, and community organizations are
attracted to the NSRC programs because of the Smithsonian's prestige and
credibility. The Smithsonian provides the NSRC with support for space,
operations, and management. With the National Academies, the Smithsonian
facilitates access to expertise and resources from the world's largest
museum complex, its research, archives, and extensive library system.
Among the objectives of the Smithsonian is to apply its unique
resources to enhance preschool through grade 12 education and adult education.
Lawrence Small is secretary of the Smithsonian Institution.
The National Academies--the National Academy of
Sciences, the National Academy of Engineering, the Institute of
Medicine, and the National Research Council--work as one outside the
framework of government to provide independent advice to the nation on
all matters of science, technology, and medicine. Knowledge of
scientific and education research and the application of best
practices are critical to the development of effective NSRC programs.
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