QCaMP
Learn how to jumpstart your pathway to quantum information science and technology.
Summer 2023 Dates
Teacher Summer Camp: June 5th – 9th, 2023
Student Summer Camp: June 26th – 30th, 2023
What is QCaMP?
The strangeness of quantum physics is being harnessed to revolutionize computing as we know it. At QCaMP (Quantum, Computing, Mathematics, & Physics), you will get a primer on computing fundamentals, learn hands-on about quantum physics, and apply those phenomena to solve computing problems in new ways.
QCaMP is a week-long (virtual and in-person) camp aimed at the high school level, with separate programs for high school teachers and students in California and New Mexico. QCaMP is FREE and participants receive a learning stipend.
You will gain experience creating circuits on a real-world quantum computer and gain access to learning resources. The only prerequisites for this camp are basic algebra and an interest in learning more!
What will I learn?
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AM | Camp Introduction Classical Bits and Gates | Double Slit Experiment | Superposition | Entanglement | IBM Q Research Project |
| PM | Probability and Statistics | Polarization Experiment | Intro to IBM Q | IBM Q Research Project | Lab Tours The Big Picture |
Modules and sessions are accessible and engaging for teachers and students. No advanced math or physics are required!
- 7+ modules including slides, recordings, activities, and worksheets
- Modules can be incorporated into classroom settings and linked with existing Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) K-12 framework
- Teacher program includes pedagogical discussions, feedback, and resource sharing
- Student program includes career talks and lots of Q&A
Next start date : Summer 2024
Teacher Summer Camp: TBD
Student Summer Camp: TBD
Stipends available for both teacher and student participants
Who will teach me?
Summer 2022 Instructors were active researchers from Sandia National Laboratories, Berkeley Labs, University of New Mexico, and New Mexico State University and K-12 specialists at Berkeley Labs and CS Alliance, with additional speakers from University of New Mexico, NIEA, and IBM.
Teachers:
When you complete QCaMP, you will have
- New fun ways to teach and explore quantum mechanics at the introductory level and beyond in your classroom;
- Resources for lesson plans and other ready-to-go activities to incorporate into your existing curriculum
- Discussion points about how quantum mechanics can transform society
Students:
When you complete QCaMP, you will have
- The ability to think about solving computing problems in novel ways
- Sample career paths, resources, and workforce opportunities to continue exploring
- Hands-on experimental experience with quantum circuits
Past Activities
July 2022 Student Camp
The first QCaMP for Students was held virtually July 11-15, 2022 with 32 students in attendance.
June 2022 Teacher Camp
The first QCaMP for Teachers was held virtually June 13-17, 2022 with 20 teachers in attendance.
July 2021 JSTI Virtual
The QSA team participated in the 2021 JSTI Virtual Program to mentor 10 students on Quantum Computing and Technology over the course of two weeks. This laid the groundwork for QCaMP.
Why QCaMP?
The workforce needs in quantum information science (QIS) are growing as experimental demonstrations advance powerful quantum technologies. However, the number of unfulfilled job vacancies increases every year, so there is tremendous potential for a highly-skilled and diverse workforce that can harness the promise of quantum advantage for meaningful applications.
QCaMP Goals:
- Introduce students to an exciting new field that they might not otherwise know about
- Reach more students by giving teachers the tools to introduce it in their classroom
- Increase diversity in the field of quantum information science by introducing concepts at an earlier education stage
Founders
Partners
Sponsors
Leadership Team
Sandia National Laboratories
Sandia National Laboratories
Sandia National Laboratories
CS Alliance
Berkeley Lab
Berkeley Lab
Testimonials
STUDENTS
“I got to learn about a lot of things I don’t learn about in school, and it was really cool.”
“I would say that QCaMP further solidified my decision to pursue STEM, and quantum has become a consideration.”
“I felt like I really could get a PhD.”
“I enjoyed finding out more about career opportunities in the quantum field.”
“I liked every single session of this camp, from a person who didn’t know anything about it, I changed into a person with a small knowledge of it, rlly glad I took this camp!”
TEACHERS
“Before this week I had never thought that I could teach something as complex as quantum mechanics or quantum computers, but now I think it can be done in a way that can be understood and is accessible to students.”
“Getting to talk to scientists was invaluable for me as a high school teacher.”
“I’ll create some space to play in IBM Q.”
“I feel that I can speak to my students with a tiny bit of confidence regarding what quantum physics may be working on.“
Resources
Download lesson material, worksheets, and videos from our past camps here!
Access past program materials:
Other Ways to Get Involved
For further information or opportunities, reach out to the QCaMP team: [email protected]