Research Experience for Teachers (RET)
Summer 2006
"Fueling Scientific Inquiry in High Schools"
Two Kansas City area high school science teachers, Jeremy Way and Jo McCormick, spent six weeks of their summer 2006 participating in the most recent discoveries in “green” chemistry and chemical engineering research at CEBC.
One of the major goals of this “Research Experiences for Teachers” (RET) program was to help these teachers revitalize their curriculum with the development of innovative lesson plans and hands-on science activities. The teachers worked collaboratively to translate their research experiences into an inquiry-based curriculum resource for use in their chemistry classes.
What's Green About Biodiesel?
Jointly mentored by faculty in chemistry and chemical engineering, the 2006 participants developed a truly inquiry-based laboratory resource called "What's Green About Biodiesel?" It introduces students to the principles of green engineering and green chemistry by exploring the production and testing of this renewable biofuel. The activities are simple and safe. Most importantly, it includes instructions on how to analyze the product with inexpensive testing methods.
~Simple, Safe, and Inexpensive Lab Activity~
A recent evaluation of the module indicates that it has a positive impact on students' attitudes toward chemistry and math.
Food-to-Fuel: KU Biodiesel Initiative
Biodiesel is a renewable and biodegradable fuel. A laboratory at KU is converting used canola oil from a campus restaurant into biodiesel for campus buses. KU students and volunteers are involved in this endeavor under the guidance of Associate Professor Susan Williams. Click here to learn more and watch videos showing how they do it.
Ambitious Teachers
The two ambitious teachers from our 2006 summer program work at public schools with very different demographic student populations. Jo McCormick teaches at Washington High School, Kansas City, KS, and Jeremy Way teaches at Mill Valley High School, Shawnee, KS. The two worked as partners throughout the summer where they developed a mutually beneficial professional relationship that will continue beyond their work at CEBC.
Opportunities for Teachers at CEBC
CEBC has diverse research opportunities in the
fields of Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, and Biochemical Engineering.
If you are currently a high school science teacher able to commute to Lawrence, KS, please consider joining
us for a stimulating six-week research experience.
Click here for information about the 2008 RET Program at CEBC
Please direct questions to
:
Claudia Bode
CEBC
1501 Wakarusa Dr., Suite A110
Lawrence, KS 66047-1803
Phone: 785.864.1647
Fax: 785.864.6051
Email: bode@ku.edu
