Professors from Purdue University are collaborating on a groundbreaking initiative to train K-12 teachers in incorporating microelectronics content into their classrooms. This program, known as SCalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement in K-12 (SCALE K-12), is a joint effort between Purdue Polytechnic, the U.S. Department of Defense, and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. The goal is to support the development of a domestic semiconductor industry in the United States.
Led by Tamara Moore, a professor of engineering education, and Greg Strimel, an associate professor of technology leadership and innovation at Purdue Polytechnic, the SCALE K-12 program has received significant funding to expand its reach to 19,000 students in 12 school districts across Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan. The program aims to equip teachers with the knowledge and resources needed to introduce microelectronics concepts to their students.
The collaboration between Purdue’s College of Engineering, College of Education, and Polytechnic Institute has been instrumental in the success of the SCALE K-12 program. Additionally, partnerships with faculty from other Midwestern universities and educational organizations have further enriched the initiative.
One of the key components of the SCALE K-12 program is the hosting of week-long workshops at Purdue, where K-12 teachers are immersed in hands-on learning experiences related to microelectronics and semiconductors. These workshops provide teachers with the opportunity to develop new curriculum that integrates these complex concepts into their classrooms.
In a recent interview, Greg Strimel shared insights into the origins of the SCALE K-12 collaboration and the impact of the summer workshops on participating teachers. Strimel highlighted the importance of starting early to build skills and awareness of career opportunities in the semiconductor industry, especially with the growth of semiconductor facilities in Indiana.
During the workshops, teachers engage in a variety of activities, including working with CNC mills to create printed circuit boards, understanding transistor technology, and programming microchips for specific functions. The hands-on nature of these projects allows teachers to gain a deeper understanding of microelectronics and semiconductor manufacturing processes.
The ultimate goal of the SCALE K-12 program is for teachers to take their newfound knowledge and experiences back to their classrooms, where they can implement the curriculum they have developed. By piloting these projects in schools and collecting data on their effectiveness, the program aims to inspire students and prepare them for future opportunities in the semiconductor industry.
The interdisciplinary nature of the collaboration between Purdue University and K-12 educators is crucial in preparing the next generation of professionals in the semiconductor industry. By equipping teachers with the tools and resources needed to teach microelectronics concepts across various subject areas, the SCALE K-12 program is paving the way for a brighter future in the field of semiconductor technology.