start to lose interest in activities they perceive as requiring brilliance. (6) Research into the cause of the early adoption of this stereotype is limited, but implicit biases held by teachers have been shown to have a negative impact on girls’ academic achievement in math and science and on their future decisions to enroll in advanced courses in these subjects. (7) While significant work is being done to expand access to high-quality computer science education for female students at the secondary and postsecondary level, there are few research funding opportunities focused exclusively on girls in early childhood education. (8) Despite the limited attention being paid to this age group, research has shown that interventions with girls at an early age can reduce the negative impact of gendered stereotypes. Scientists have found that positive experiences with robotics and computing lead to greater interest and self-confidence among girls, even after gender stereotypes about computing have been adopted. 3. Definitions In this Act: (1) Director The term Director means the Director of the National Science Foundation. (2) Institution of higher education The term institution of higher education has the meaning given the term in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1001(a) ). (3) Local educational agency The term local educational agency has the meaning given the term in section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 7801 ), except that such term also includes preschools, after-school programs, and summer programs. (4) STEM The term STEM means science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, including computer science. (5) Young girls The term young girls means female individuals who have not attained the age of 11. 4. Research grants (a) In general The Director shall award grants on a competitive basis to institutions of higher education, local educational agencies, or nonprofit organizations (or consortia of such institutions, agencies, or organizations), to