Quantum education and pathways: an open-source modifiable presentation to high school and college students

Abstract

This paper describes and provides examples of a presentation, ‘Quantum for High School and College Students’ created to give to high school and college students to encourage them to consider using quantum science and technologies in their studies and careers. Some thoughts on critical thinking about abstract subjects and mentoring capture the attention of the student audience, which is followed by the main topics. The presentation includes an introduction to quantum science (including a laser diffraction demonstration), quantum computers and cybersecurity, many more quantum science and technology applications, education and career pathways that use quantum science and on-line resources. There is a very brief history of quantum science, an outline and nine examples of the many fields of study and endeavor, and a couple (optional) references to how governments are supporting these efforts. Some specific online references are provided to company and university websites where substantial information can be found for students seeking to learn more about all thing’s quantum with some focus on quantum computing. The modifiable Power Point presentation can be downloaded from the author’s website, complete with lecture notes and hotlinks to all the references. A specific webpage has been created and organized so that it can be accessed by potential presenters and students seeking to learn more about the topics. The presentation can be given by other volunteers including quantum graduate students, professors, and high school teachers. The presentation and on-line resources may be very useful to SPIE members and SPIE Student Chapters seeking to recruit students to their companies and universities. Other related professional societies, such as the American Institute for Physics and their Society of Physics Students may also find this useful.