Laser applications in science education (LASE) project at santa teresa high school

Abstract

This manuscript will explain how to bring the LASE Project (Laser Applications in Science Education) to the high school physics classroom. The goal of the project is to bring significant laser technology and optics to the secondary level with a special emphasis on student research and publication. The project this year at Santa Teresa High School focused on permitting all students in physics classes (32/period) to experience laser labs in small groups working throughout the classroom. In addition to receiving this exposure, all physics students were encouraged to do original research projects and to compete for cash prizes against other California high school students at the first annual Optical Sciences Fair held at San Jose State University. Students were further encouraged to publish their results in the LASE LOG journal.This manuscript will explain how to bring the LASE Project (Laser Applications in Science Education) to the high school physics classroom. The goal of the project is to bring significant laser technology and optics to the secondary level with a special emphasis on student research and publication. The project this year at Santa Teresa High School focused on permitting all students in physics classes (32/period) to experience laser labs in small groups working throughout the classroom. In addition to receiving this exposure, all physics students were encouraged to do original research projects and to compete for cash prizes against other California high school students at the first annual Optical Sciences Fair held at San Jose State University. Students were further encouraged to publish their results in the LASE LOG journal.