The National Science Center, with its multifaceted programs, is designed to increase interest in science, math, and technology among students, improve the skills of teachers, and provide math and science education support in the classroom. Portable planetariums for instruction in space science, astronomy, geography, and biology are available on loan to teachers that have been certified through the center's comprehensive training program. In addition, the National Science Center operates a Discovery Center which offers school groups and the general public interactive experiences with scientific exhibits. The center operates mobile versions of the Discover Center that travel nationwide. The National Science Center also reaches out nationally with satellite teleconference programs on science education.
Service members face many challenges when trying to take education classes in their off-duty hours.
Primary Change of Station for personnel, Temporary Assignment Duties, and work schedules make it difficult to complete traditional courses and degree programs. Marines now have the opportunity to complete degrees with the original school regardless of changes in duty station. The goal of the program is to create a worldwide Marine Corps Campus. In order to rectify this situation, the Navy is establishing Academic Skills Learning Centers worldwide at all major Navy installations. This is a fully integrated learning system which incorporates testing and placement, and tracks the progress of each participant.