CEM strives to increase the quantity and quality of scientists and engineers well-prepared to contribute to and lead research, development, and commercialization in materials-related fields. Through focused, coordinated, and sustained activities that engage groups extending from elementary school students through faculty ranks, the CEM addresses three specific objectives:
Enhancing classroom education through:
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Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of student learning
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Education research-based curriculum development
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Integrated CEM-related topics/techniques in grad courses and advanced labs
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Improving learning, retention in courses related to bridge program
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Generating journal publications and national conference presentations
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Training PhD’s in materials-related education research
Creating research internship opportunities including:
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Strong REU program with high URM representation
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Significant participation by students with disabilities
Widening the Science-Technology-Engineering-Math (STEM) “pipeline,” particularly in materials-related disciplines by:
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Significantly increasing URM PhD students via MS-to-PhD Bridge Program
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Impacting 100 teachers and 1000’s of students from high-need K-12 schools
Tightly interwoven with CEM’s Education & Outreach activities are Diversity Enhancement efforts aimed at enhancing diversity in science and engineering by eliminating barriers to the success of underrepresented groups.
Our Education & Outreach program includes:
- Outreach activities
- Research Experiences for the Undergraduate (REU) Programs
- Education research/curriculum development
Education & Outreach Leadership
- Michelle Richard, Education and Outreach Director
- Andrew Heckler, Associate Professor, Dept. of Physics
- Shirley L. Yu, Associate Professor, Dept. of Educational Studies – Educational Psychology