Quantum Computing, Math, and Physics (QCaMP): Introducing quantum computing in high schools

TL;DR

This paper presents QCaMP, a curriculum designed to introduce quantum computing to high school teachers and students, aiming to foster diversity and meet growing industry demand.

Contribution

It develops and evaluates a no-prerequisite quantum computing curriculum for high schools, including summer camps for teachers and students.

Findings

Positive evaluation results from summer camps

Increased interest in quantum computing among participants

Potential for expanding quantum education in high schools

Abstract

The nascent but rapidly growing field of Quantum Information Science and Technology has led to an increased demand for skilled quantum workers and an opportunity to build a diverse workforce at the outset. In order to meet this demand and encourage women and underrepresented minorities in STEM to consider a career in QIST, we have developed a curriculum for introducing quantum computing to teachers and students at the high school level with no prerequisites. In 2022, this curriculum was delivered over the course of two one-week summer camps, one targeting teachers and another targeting students. Here, we present an overview of the objectives, curriculum, and activities, as well as results from the formal evaluation of both camps and the outlook for expanding QCaMP in future years.