The major objectives of this AI-driven, Career Inspiring Experiential Program for Semiconductor Education (ACIES) project are to: 1) Enhance high school students’ knowledge, skills, and interests in microelectronics and semiconductor fields; 2) Enhance students’ self-efficacy in learning electrical and computer engineering as well as physical sciences; 3) Bridge the gap between education and professional development in related career pathways; 4) Investigate factors (awareness, interests, and demographics) that impact high school students’ career choices in STEM and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) fields.
This four-year project will engage 96 high school students (grades 10-12) in immersive learning experience in microelectronics and semiconductor fields through three-phase training workshops as well was connect them with their future career pathways through field trips and apprenticeship/internship at local industries. The ACIES curriculum in microelectronics and semiconductor tailored specifically for high school students will be developed and implemented in the training workshops.
A combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods will be used to address research questions including: To what extent do the ACIES curriculum and project activities enhance high school students’ knowledge, skills, and interests in microelectronics and semiconductor fields? To what extent do the ACIES curriculum and project activities enhance students’ self-efficacy in learning electrical and computer engineering as well as physical sciences? How does the ACIES curriculum and project activities enhance students’ equitable access to education and career exploration opportunities in microelectronics and semiconductor fields? How do awareness, interests, and demographic factors influence the career choices of students in STEM and ICT fields?
Dr. Mei Yang, Professor in Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Email: Mei.Yang@unlv.edu, Phone: (702) 895-2364
Dr. Shaoan Zhang, Professor in Teaching and Learning, Email: Shaoan.Zhang@unlv.edu, Phone: (702) 895-5084