Did you get our March Brainstorms! newsletter of the Montana STEM Educator Network?
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Teachers: Apply for a free kit to celebrate World Quantum DayWQD logo

Teachers can apply to receive a free kit of resources to celebrate World Quantum Day on or near April 14, 2024.

World Quantum Day is an international event held on April 14 to generate interest in quantum science. Quantum is the science of atoms and particles which are the building blocks of the universe! Scientists have used quantum mechanics to create technology we use every day such as the chips in smartphones. What exciting technology will be discovered next? Learn more and apply.

Team publishes on the power of the MSU Research Experience for Teachers in Journal of STEM Outreach

RET Cohort 2Feb. 2024: An article written by the MSU Research Experience for Teachers team - Culturally Responsive Energy Engineering Education: Campus-Based Research Experience for Reservation and Rural Elementary Educators - has been published in the Journal of STEM Outreach. Authors are Nick Lux (Education, MSU), Becky Hammack (Education, Purdue, formerly MSU), Paul Gannon (Engineering, MSU), Sweeney Windchief (Education, MSU), Suzi Taylor (Science Math Resource Center, MSU), Abigail Richards (Engineering, MSU) and Douglas Hacker (Educational Pyschology, University of Utah).

The article was written after the Year 1 RET, and indicates that the participating teachers showed significant gains in personal teaching efficacy beliefs in science and engineering;felt more comfortable teaching engineering after completing the program; and increased theircapacities to teach engineering and integrate culturally responsive practices.Vol 7, Issue 2, Feb. 1, 2024.

Spring 2024 office hours announced for STEM Lending Library for students, staff, faculty and educators

STEM library flyerThe Science Math Resource Center's STEM Lending Library is filled with books, kits and hands-on resources for use in educational outreach. MSU students, staff and faculty and in-service educators can check out materials. The SMRC staff is happy to make recommendations of appropriate resources for age groups and situations.

We alsowelcome inquiries and new projects from researchers who wish to create and disseminate educational resources for broader impacts and outreach.

Spring office hours

  • Wednesdays: 11am - 3pm and
  • Thursdays: 10am - 11am and 1:30 - 2:30pm

Or, call SMRC at (406) 994-7476 or email[email protected]to visit the Lending Library at another time.

The STEM Lending Library is located in Reid 413 (enter through Reid 412). Learn more

MSU receives $26.7 million grant for quantum technology;
SMRC will support education and workforce development

quantum 2D materialsWith a new $26.7 million grant from the U.S. Air Force, Montana State University will establish a facility with the mission of moving advanced quantum technology applications in cybersecurity, communications technology and national defense from concept and testing to market. The 20-month grant from the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome, New York, will support MSU’s Applied Quantum CORE facility.

The Science Math Resource Center will oversee education and workforce development, including creating programs that help youth, educators and community members learn more about quantum concepts and the quantum industry; and working with higher education institutions and industry to establish and promote career pathways and internships while exploring new training and educational programs at all levels. Read the MSU news story here.