In 2005, NASA TV switched from transmitting an analog TV signal to a Digital signal that requires viewers to buy a digital receiver. NASA need to determine how this technology switch effects viewers, how viewers use NASA TV, and what changes they request. Responses will be used to recommend improvements to NASA TV.
1. Request for emergency processing of submission of collection of information, rationale, and requested OMB approval time period: The NASA-sponsored Classroom of the Future (COTF) at the Wheeling Jesuit University Center for Educational Technologies petitions that OMB authorize emergency processing of the COTF submission for the NASA-TV User Survey collection of information. The use of normal clearance procedures would prevent collection of information because of the dates of the COTF contracted period of performance (October 2006-June 2007). The NASA TV Survey is a deliverable that was assigned and must be completed within this period of performance. (There is a possible extension through September 30, 2007 for the final report.) To meet the June Â07 deadline, the collection of contact information and survey data must begin in March Â07. Therefore, the agency cannot reasonably comply with normal clearance procedures and requests approval or disapproval of this data collection by February 28, 2007.
2. Documentation supporting how the collection of these data is essential to the mission of the NASA agency: NASAÂs founding legislation, the Space Act of 1958, directs the agency to expand human knowledge of Earth and space phenomena and to preserve the role of the United States as a leader in aeronautics, space science, and technology. High achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is essential to the accomplishment of NASAÂs mission. All of NASAÂs education efforts are part of an integrated agencywide approach to human capital management. Within the NASA Strategic Plan, education is identified as a cross-cutting function that supports all of the agencyÂs strategic goals and objectives. NASA delivers a comprehensive agency education portfolioÂa collection of investments and strategies, such as research and development, managed to further common goalsÂimplemented by the Office of Education, the NASA mission directorates, and the NASA centers. Through the portfolio NASA contributes to our nationÂs efforts in achieving excellence in STEM education.
As the United States begins the second century of flight, the nation must maintain its commitment to excellence in STEM education to ensure that the next generation of Americans can accept the full measure of their roles and responsibilities in shaping the future.
COTF will collect information on the use of NASA-TV to make recommendations to NASA Education to increase the effectiveness of the network to support science, technology, engineering, and mathematics literacy and pipeline achievement.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.
NASA TV Viewers Survey
NASA TV emergency request2.doc
NASA TV Viewers Survey