Research Experience for Teachers (RET)

The University of Arizona's Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering is sponsoring a five-week Institute for math, technology, and science teachers in the summer of 2010. 

The program begins June 7 and ends July 16.

Each of the 5 teams (2 to 4 teachers in each) are from an upper elementary or secondary school that are committed to integrating science, technology, and math and using inquiry-based learning in the classroom.

During the institute, the team teachers will:

Complete a 5 week research internship to investigate:

• Processes for removal of contaminants from industrial wastewater and groundwater;
• Remediation of landfills and contaminated groundwater in Tucson;
• Detection and removal of biofilms from industrial systems;
  • Methods to purify water for the semiconductor industry
  • Use of membranes in bio micro-electromechanical-devices (MEMS)
  • Optimization of chemical mechanical polishing (CMP)
  • Alternative energy and energy optimization
• Learn to write inquiry-based lessons and use science notebooks;
• In multidisciplinary teams, brainstorm and write new labs and exercises for your classroom focusing on inquiry-based integrated math, technology and science lessons;
• Review current classroom techniques like gender/minority equity and differentiated instruction;
• Work with pre-service teachers who will assist in your classrooms; and
• Tour of U of A semiconductor and environmental labs & clean rooms and participate field trips to industries and utilities.

Highlights:

• Five weeks: 8 AM to 4 PM
• Internships in research labs at U of A with industry partners
• $4,100 total stipend per teacher
• Salary Increment Credits approved by some districts
• Re-Certification Hours
• Opportunity to learn about exciting research and industry practices and develop new curricular materials based on that knowledge