National Defense Education Act Flashcards, test questions and answers
Discover flashcards, test exam answers, and assignments to help you learn more about National Defense Education Act and other subjects. Don’t miss the chance to use them for more effective college education. Use our database of questions and answers on National Defense Education Act and get quick solutions for your test.
What is National Defense Education Act?
The National Defense Education Act (NDEA) was a piece of legislation passed by the United States Congress in 1958 and signed into law by President Dwight Eisenhower. The act was created to promote science, mathematics, and foreign language education in the United States as a response to the Soviet Union’s successful launch of Sputnik 1 satellite. The NDEA provided federal funding for educational programs that would help bolster national defense capabilities by providing students with increased knowledge and skills in science, mathematics, engineering, and foreign languages. It also provided funds for research into improved methods of teaching these subjects as well as grants for student loans for those pursuing degrees related to national defense. The Act had several major components including: (1) scholarships for college students studying science or engineering; (2) research grants to universities; (3) loan forgiveness programs; (4) support for international studies; and (5) teacher training centers aimed at improving instruction in math and science. Additionally, the NDEA established several new organizations such as the National Science Foundation which has been influential in promoting scientific research since its creation. The impact of the National Defense Education Act has been significant both at home and abroad. In addition to increasing access to education opportunities among Americans of all backgrounds, it helped spur a new wave of technological advancement around the world due to increased investment in scientific research and development made possible by its funding provisions. Today, many aspects of American education are still shaped by the legacy left behind by this landmark legislationfrom modern day student loan programs designed to make college more affordable to advanced placement courses that give high schoolers an edge when it comes time for college admissions decisionsthe NDEA continues to have an impact on our nation’s educational system nearly 60 years after its passage.