Achievement date: June 2016

Outcome/Accomplishment:

The Engineering Research Center (ERC) for Quantum Energy and Sustainable Solar Technologies (QESST) at Arizona State University (ASU) implemented a Research Experience for Teachers (RET) program that provides teachers with unique opportunities to develop and implement new solar curricula in their classrooms. QESST partnered with the CompuGirls Program at Arizona State University to get girls excited about careers in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. RET teachers tested  their activities before returning to their classrooms.

 

Impact and Benefits:

• Teachers who participate in the RET program develop connections between the lab and the classroom as well as implement new curricula at their school.
• The RET program provides teachers with the tools and resources to design solar curriculum for students at their home schools.
• Through partnerships with the Center for Gender Equity in Science and Technology at ASU, QESST participates in summer engineering programs that promote STEM education to women belonging to diverse race-ethnic-social class groups.

 

 

Explanation and Background:

Twenty girls learned about QESST research and other energy-related technologies from ASU QESST scholars, faculty and RET.  Students visited a cleanroom and participated in hands-on activities provided by QESST RETs.

Teachers gained experience in the delivery of their lessons and were provided feedback from QESST faculty and scholars, as well as the Compugirls.