Homeschool

MRSEC established a homeschooling science and engineering program in 2001. The program is designed to share university resources, reach a diverse population, and to extend the excitement of research to families who choose to educate their children at home in preparation for college. Currently, MRSEC is working with middle school and high school levels. Each year, MRSEC develops courses that are taught in the MRSEC classroom during the fall and spring semesters. Homeschool students are also invited to apply to MRSEC summer programs.

Over the years, MRSEC homeschool courses have included circuits, the physics and engineering design behind the construction of roll coasters, biomaterials, chemistry activities with an emphasis on polymers, and science and math in relation to cultural development. These short-courses are funded by the NSF and developed by the University of Maryland MRSEC staff in order to help students achieve success in science and engineering learning. For a list of past homeschool programs, click here.

“I would like to thank the MRSEC for all they do for homeschool students. We appreciate the extra time and effort that goes into everything they do AND for providing the courses at no cost to us. I wish we could give back more than just a thank you!”

Upcoming

Homeschool courses are currently suspended due to Center reorganizations. Information will be posted here if/when course offerings resume.

If you are looking for extension courses for homeschooled children, there may be other programs available in the University of Maryland system. Also, you may be interested in classes offered by the Institute for Academic Challenge, co-founded and in part taught by MRSEC graduate students.

Spring 2011: The World of Nanoscience with UMD-MRSEC

Recommended Ages: 14-17

Meeting Dates: Thursdays: Feb. 3, Feb. 10, Feb. 17, Feb. 24 Please note the change in spring 2011 homeschool dates.

Meeting Time: Each session will meet promptly at 1:00 pm and end at 3:00 pm.

Location: All sessions will be held on the University of Maryland campus in the MRSEC Science & Engineering Learning Center (Room 1233, Chemistry Bldg.)

Parking and Campus Map (pdf)

Course Description: This course is designed for students interested in nanoscience and nanotechnology. In today's world, scientists are creating new nanotechnologies and products to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges. The aim of this course is to introduce students to nanoscience research and its applications. The course is designed around the following topics and activities.

Topics Covered

• Exploration of the world at the nano-level
• Tools and applications of nanotechnology
• Nanoscience and society

Activities

• Experiments and activities
• Nanoscience research discussions with UMD MRSEC faculty
• Laboratory tours
• Required readings and homework
• Final student project

Registration opens November 1, 2010 and closes December 1, 2010. Notification of acceptance will be sent out on or before December 15, 2010. Maximum number of participants in the program is 14 students.

Application: MRSEC 2011 Spring Homeschool Application