Teaching quantum information science to high-school and early undergraduate students

TL;DR

This paper introduces an accessible educational program that enables high-school and early undergraduates to learn quantum information science through hands-on exercises and simulations, without advanced math.

Contribution

It presents a novel, simple outreach approach combining practical exercises and simulations to teach quantum concepts to beginners.

Findings

Students gain understanding of quantum gates and circuits.

Hands-on activities improve engagement and comprehension.

The program is accessible without advanced mathematics.

Abstract

We present a simple, accessible, yet rigorous outreach/educational program focused on quantum information science and technology for high-school and early undergraduate students. This program allows students to perform meaningful hands-on calculations with quantum circuits and algorithms, without requiring knowledge of advanced mathematics. A combination of pen-and-paper exercises and IBM Q simulations helps students understand the structure of quantum gates and circuits, as well as the principles of superposition, entanglement, and measurement in quantum mechanics.