Photonics education for a green future: Connecting the dots of the Arizona STEM education experiment

Stephen M. Pompea, Leonard W. Fine, Pierre Meystre

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

The National Optical Astronomy Observatory, Science Foundation Arizona, and the University of Arizona are teamed on a long-term multi-pronged approach to photonics education in Arizona that is congruent with a "green" future. This approach involves education around the content areas of renewable energy sources, laser-based communication and laser-assisted manufacturing, photovoltaics, solid-state lighting and displays, nanotechnology, and other recent technology developments. Equally important is the process by which we are working to transform the Arizona K-12 schools and universities through programs that emphasize problem-solving, system thinking, and collaborative approaches. We also emphasize the role of the informal education system (such as museums) and the value of "freechoice" learning to science education. A key to our success is the work of traditionally research-oriented organizations and industry associations in supporting science and technology education.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationSPIE Eco-Photonics 2011
Subtitle of host publicationSustainable Design, Manufacturing, and Engineering Workforce Education for a Green Future
DOIs
StatePublished - 2011
EventSPIE Eco-Photonics 2011: Sustainable Design, Manufacturing, and Engineering Workforce Education for a Green Future - Strasbourg, France
Duration: Mar 28 2011Mar 30 2011

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume8065
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Other

OtherSPIE Eco-Photonics 2011: Sustainable Design, Manufacturing, and Engineering Workforce Education for a Green Future
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityStrasbourg
Period3/28/113/30/11

Keywords

  • educational reform
  • educational systems
  • optics education
  • outreach
  • technology education

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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