Archive: Bringing Quantum Science to the K-12 Classroom, November 6, 2025

Science Update logoOver the past 100 years quantum mechanics has become central to scientists’ understanding of the physical world: from governing the rules of chemical bonds, to underlying the workings of electronics and computers, to deepening the answers to questions like “Why is the sky blue?” and “How does the sun shine?”  Despite its centrality and increasing importance, quantum concepts are rarely mentioned in K-12 educational settings.  

In this presentation, the presenter will discuss some introductory quantum concepts, why quantum has been challenging to teach at the K-12 level, and how a new generation of conceptual and pedagogical tools can help teachers bring quantum into their classes.

All individuals receive a certificate of participation and 100 NSTA activity points for attending the live seminar and completing the end-of-program survey. A certificate of participation is not awarded for watching the recorded version of the program.

We invite you to register for upcoming web seminars at NSTA.

View the Archive Video

To view the presentation slides from the web seminar and related resources, visit the resource collection. Continue discussing this topic in the community forums.

Below are comments from individuals who attended the seminar:

  • "I enjoyed learning about new information throughout the whole seminar. I found it interesting that there were so many different resources and ways that helped me understand quantum mechanics and all of the different ways that the meaning has changed."
  • "I loved the framing that a quantum is something you can count and the repeated message to “focus on how quantum helps,” not on perfect mastery. The balance of “weirdness” with familiar examples was a great way to keep the target audience engaged without mystifying the topic."
  • "I really enjoyed how the content was presented! I think the presenter did a great job making outside connections, such as to movies, and presented the content in a way that was beneficial for people unfamiliar with quantum in science."

A certificate of attendance was deposited into participants' account page for completing the evaluation form at the end of the program.

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