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Meggers Project Award granted to PhET Interactive Simulations

The American Institute of Physics has awarded PhET Interactive Simulations a $25,000 grant to develop a professional learning course and community for high school physics teachers. The award aims to improve physics education in the US by raising interest and boosting quality.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateOct 30, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Computer science teachers may be better qualified than their peers

A recent study suggests that computer science teachers have greater education and classroom experience compared to teachers of other subjects. The study found that students' learning in computer science was positively impacted by teachers' experience teaching the subject.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalComputer Science Education·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 25, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Using artificial intelligence (AI) to conduct classroom intelligent analysis of real classrooms

Researchers from East China Normal University developed an AI-driven system to analyze classroom videos, revealing teacher-centered instruction prevails in primary and secondary schools. The study also found that older students engage less in critical discussions and more in structured questions.

SourceECNU Review of Education·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 14, 2025

Life work, not homework

A new report by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture recommends strengthening Tennessee's financial education requirement for high school students. The study suggests that increasing the instructional time devoted to personal finance in the curriculum and recommending full-credit courses would be beneficial. Additionall...

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateApr 2, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Textbooks come alive with new, interactive AI tool

A team of computer scientists has developed an interactive AI tool that transforms static physics textbook diagrams into 3D simulations, allowing students to visualize complex concepts like momentum and electrical currents in action.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateNov 1, 2024

UTA professor honored for science education leadership

Karen Jo Matsler, a UTA professor, is being honored for her extensive contributions to physics education and her efforts to support educators nationwide. Her Quantum for All initiative aims to integrate quantum concepts into high school science instruction, preparing students for careers in quantum technology.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 3, 2024

Study finds when self-determination model provided to schools with support, teachers and all students benefit

Researchers found that providing robust supports to teachers enables better educational outcomes for all students, including those with disabilities. The study showed that students who set goals under the SDLMI demonstrated improved motivation and academic achievement.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalTeacher Education and Special Education The Journal of the Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 4, 2024

Bringing quantum tools to high school classrooms

A UTA-led program is equipping high school teachers and students with college-level quantum concepts to fill a growing talent gap in the $44 billion QIS technology market. The Quantum for All program aims to integrate quantum principles into national STEM standards, starting with Texas this fall.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJul 10, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Rethinking English essay scores: The argument for argument over grammar

A Kobe University study finds that high-scoring essays prioritize complex meaning and diverse expressions, not grammatical complexity. The researcher advocates for a shift in test scoring rubrics to reflect this, suggesting 'contextually appropriate grammar' should be used instead of 'complex grammar'.

SourceKobe University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 18, 2024

Online professional education works for complex topics

UTA researchers found that sending material in advance and using Zoom features like chat, polling, and breakout rooms helped keep participants engaged. Short, relevant videos also proved effective in teaching complicated topics. The team recommends a structured approach with activities like icebreaker exercises to foster community enga...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalThe Physics Teacher·TypeSurvey·DateJun 7, 2024

Explicit socioemotional learning can have a key role in PE lessons, study says

Researchers found that explicitly teaching socioemotional skills in PE lessons can have a key role in supporting students' communication skills, handling stress and accepting failure. This approach can be integrated into everyday teaching to ensure young adolescents enjoy positive outcomes linked to wellbeing and academic success.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPastoral Care in Education·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Small class sizes not better for pupils’ grades or resilience, says study

A study published in International Journal of Science Education found that minimizing pupil numbers in classrooms does not lead to better grades. Instead, high-quality teachers with discipline standards and effective teaching methods increase the odds of pupils from low-income families achieving academically.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInternational Journal of Science Education·DateMar 8, 2024

How Americans really feel about the teaching of controversial topics in schools

A new USC study found that Americans are united on core principles of public education, but diverge on sensitive topics like LGBTQ+ inclusion and racial justice in K-12 curricula. The survey revealed deep partisan divides, with Democrats generally supporting teaching controversial topics, while Republicans were less supportive.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 21, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

From snack to science: Innovative grant brings popcorn into the classroom

The project aims to develop a standardized Next Generation Science Storyline that can be delivered in any high school classroom, increasing science literacy and critical thinking among students. Pop-omics, a popcorn-based curriculum, will also provide hands-on lessons on machine learning and AI, connecting with the national AITC program.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateJan 19, 2024

New HS curriculum teaches color chemistry and AI simultaneously

Researchers developed a weeklong high school curriculum that teaches color chemistry and AI, improving students' knowledge and motivation. The curriculum uses machine learning to analyze pH levels, showing the connection between chemistry and AI in a practical application.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2023
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Black girls benefit most when STEM teachers train up

A study by Rice University found that students in classes taught by STEM teachers who received professional development training were more likely to pursue STEM majors in college. Black female students showed the greatest increase, with nearly double the percentage of non-AMP! teachers.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of STEM Outreach·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 13, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Study shows how Black male teacher-coaches illustrate civic-focused education

A study by University of Kansas faculty member Daniel Thomas III founds Black male teacher-coaches in predominantly white private schools employ unique civic-oriented practices to counter historical anti-Blackness. They engage students and athletes in social activism, community service, and critical civic engagement.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalTheory & Research in Social Education·TypeCase study·DateAug 25, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Study finds librarian-teacher co-teaching benefits students, teachers

A three-year study found that librarian-teacher co-teaching significantly facilitates learner-centered instruction, such as maker learning and inquiry learning, across all levels of schools. School librarians played a crucial role in making these individualized learning opportunities possible by using various instructional methods.

SourceUniversity of Illinois School of Information Sciences·DateJul 15, 2022

An introduction to GIS for Dallas, Texas high schoolers

Researchers from Portland State University introduced a four-week GIS training workshop in Dallas, Texas, to teach high school students spatial reasoning skills. The project partnered with CityLab High School and incorporated the curriculum into an existing course focused on transportation networks and environmental justice.

SourcePortland State University·DateJul 14, 2022

Do online classes during school closures impact students’ mental health?

A cross-sectional survey of 5,000 Japanese students found that online classes during COVID-19 school closures were associated with lower rates of emotional symptoms and smartphone addiction. The study suggests that implementing online classes could be a protective measure for adolescents' mental health during national school closures.

SourceWiley·JournalPsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences·DateJun 22, 2022

Medicalizing menopause may be unhelpful for some women

Menopause is often perceived as a hormone deficiency, but experts argue this can lead to negative expectations. Instead, a more nuanced approach emphasizes the positive aspects of menopause, such as freedom from menstruation and reduced symptoms. Normalizing ageing and celebrating women's strengths can also improve experiences.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 15, 2022

Using marinated eggs to demonstrate diffusion

The study used marinated eggs to demonstrate how diffusion works in a simple visual manner. The results showed that higher temperatures accelerated the diffusion process, with deeper penetration into the egg white over time. This experiment can be easily replicated at home or in a classroom setting.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAmerican Journal of Physics·DateMar 23, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Planting Science: A partnership program connecting students, teachers, and scientists proves effective for improving high school students’ science learning and how students view scientists

The Planting Science program, a partnership between students, teachers, and scientists, improves high school students' science knowledge and attitude towards scientists. The study found that students who participated in the program scored 11 percentile points higher on assessments than those who did not.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalJournal of Research in Science Teaching·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 7, 2022

Sense of belonging helps high school students engage with STEM

A new study from North Carolina State University found that feeling inclusive in the classroom is key to promoting STEM education and student engagement. Students who felt their classrooms were inclusive were more likely to feel like they belonged and engage with their STEM classes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Research in Science Teaching·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2022

UToledo study finds K-12 teachers largely against arming educators

A University of Toledo study found that 70.8% of K-12 educators surveyed are against allowing teachers to carry guns in schools. Despite proposals to train and arm teachers, the majority of educators strongly disagree with the idea, citing concerns about safety and normalization of school shootings.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalJournal of School Violence·TypeSurvey·DateDec 9, 2021

Netflix’s Sex Education lives up to its name – and challenges perceptions about teens and porn

The study analyzes how Sex Education fills the gap in sex education for teenagers, offering a more nuanced understanding of their needs. The show represents sex education as a conversation between teens, parents, and experts, challenging traditional gatekeeper ideas about adult protection.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalInformation Communication & Society·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 11, 2021

COVID curriculum brings science home for high school students

Researchers at the University of Arizona developed a new curriculum that allows high school students to learn about coronaviruses, genetics, and bioinformatics from home. The lesson plan, which was created before COVID-19 vaccines were introduced, teaches students how different vaccines work and analyzes protein sequences. Students who...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe American Biology Teacher·DateOct 15, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Research shows ethnic studies increases student engagement and high school graduation

New research from UMass Amherst found that enrolling academically struggling 9th graders in an ethnic studies course significantly increases their chances of graduating from high school and enrolling in college. The study, which analyzed nearly 1,400 students, also showed improvements in attendance and engagement.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 6, 2021

Salinas Valley teens find green cleaning is worth the hype

A study by UC Berkeley researchers and Salinas Valley teens found that switching to green cleaning products can reduce users' exposure to up to 17 different harmful chemicals. The study, led by co-author Jessica Cabrera, showed an 86% decrease in chloroform exposure after making the switch.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

UTA pioneers quantum physics training for high school teachers

UTA is launching a nationwide quantum education initiative for secondary teachers, capitalizing on familiar content areas in existing curricula. The three-year program will provide stipends, resources, and equipment for classrooms and student STEM camps.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJun 9, 2021

$2.5 million grant will support algebra teachers' professional development

A $2.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation will support algebra teachers' professional development at the University of Missouri-Columbia. The goal is to create new online materials that help students better understand algebra and develop critical thinking skills, ultimately leading to improved learning outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 26, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Paying for whose performance? Teacher incentive pay and the black-white test score gap

A study found that teacher incentive pay programs in North Carolina expanded the test score gap between Black and White students, with gains smaller for Black students. The programs aimed to increase teaching effectiveness in high-need schools but had little impact on average student achievement overall.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateApr 12, 2021

Teachers can use popular media to address anti-Asian bias, KU research shows

A University of Kansas study demonstrates the effectiveness of critical race media literacy in discussing difficult topics, such as racism and sexism, with younger age groups. By using popular media like superhero movies, teachers can create a safe space for students to discuss complex issues.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalInternational Journal of Multicultural Education·DateMar 30, 2021

Physics camp has proven benefits for high school girls

A summer program at Rice University has proven successful in helping high school girls thrive in challenging science courses, with participants scoring 3% better in physics. The study also found that hands-on engineering experiences help teachers engage students and improve their own self-efficacy in engineering instruction.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·DateMar 5, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Researcher boosts vegetable oil production in plant leaves

A University of Missouri researcher has found a way to increase triacylglycerol production in plant leaves using CRISPR gene editing, which could lead to greater and cheaper vegetable oil production. This breakthrough technique enables the harvesting of oil from large, leafy plants with multiple uses, such as sorghum.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 17, 2020

Amazon donates $2 million to Carnegie Mellon's Computer Science Academy

Carnegie Mellon's Computer Science Academy will continue to provide a free online computer science curriculum for middle and high school students with the support of Amazon's $2 million donation. The program aims to bridge the equity divide in computer science education, serving over 1,200 schools and 22,000 students worldwide.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateDec 8, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Impactful science teaching requires minimum five hours instruction weekly

A study by University of Vermont researcher Tammy Kolbe found that inquiry-based science teaching requires minimum five hours instruction weekly to use recommended learning practices. Only one-third of eighth-grade students receive at least 5 hours of science instruction each week.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·DateDec 2, 2020

MU earns $5.45 million to advance literacy efforts throughout Missouri

The University of Missouri is receiving $5.45 million to improve literacy in Missouri schools through the Show Me Literacies Collaborative. The grant will support early childhood educators in extending family literacy practices into the classroom, with a focus on inclusive and multilingual literacies.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateOct 7, 2020