Schedule

9:00 to 9:15 - Introduction from Host Institution, Stefan Stoianov

9:20 to 10:20 - Keynote Presentation
Title:  UNI Physics and Science Education Courses, Programs, and Opportunities for Future/Existing Teachers and High School Students

Presenter:  Dr. Lawrence Escalada, UNI

Abstract:  The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) Physics and Science Education offers courses and programs as well as professional development and outreach opportunities for future/existing teachers and high school students.  The presenter(s) will share information about these courses, programs, and opportunities as well as engage participants in some of the included activities.    

10:20 to 10:30 - BREAK

10:30 to 10:45 - Presentation

Title: Physics Day at Adventureland

Presenter: Tony McCutchan, Winterset High School

Abstract: We invite Iowa physics teachers to participate in Adventureland Physics Day, a unique opportunity for students to apply physics in a real-world setting. Using theme park rides, students will collect and analyze kinematic data with modern tools, gaining hands-on experience. The event will also feature industry professionals sharing insights into STEAM careers.

We need your expertise to help shape the curriculum and guide students through this engaging experience. Let’s work together to inspire Iowa’s future scientists and engineers.

10:45 to 11:00 - Presentation

Title:  New Online Course, Scientific Computing

Presenters: Drew Guinness, DMACC

Abstract: A new course is available for STEM majors to learn how to code!!

11:00 to 11:30 - Presentation

Title: Into the Quantumverse

Presenter: Paul Shand, UNI Physics

Abstract: A quantum-themed camp for high-school students will be described. The camp is one of the outreach activities associated with a National Science Foundation grant awarded to the University of Northern Iowa Physics Department in 2023. The objective of the grant is to facilitate research and public education in quantum information science and engineering.

11:30 to 12:30 - LUNCH

Conversation:  HOW DO WE INCLUDE AI INTO OUR TEACHING STRATEGIES ASAP?

Info: A short IAAPT Business Meeting will also take place during Lunch.

Business Meeting Minutes:

12:40 to 1:00 - Presentation

Title:  STEM Pathways at the DOE: Training Opportunities and Collaborative Research that Support the DOE Mission in Science, Energy, National Security, and the Environment

Presenter: Kelly Bergman, PhD, Education & Outreach Program Manager, Ames National Laboratory

Abstract:  Opportunities for students offered at the DOE will be discussed.  CCI & SULI REU’s will be discussed along with other opportunities.

1:00 to 2:00 - Presentation

Title:  Physics for Peace: An Interdisciplinary Approach

Presenter: John Hauptman & E.J. Bahng, Iowa State University

Abstract:  We will discuss the Honors Course “The Art and Science of Peace” taught by faculty from four Colleges at Iowa State University, and ongoing interdisciplinary efforts where experts discuss foundations and aspects for positive peace.  Physicists such as Einstein, Oppenheimer, Robert Wilson, and thousands of others, have championed peace since the Trinity test.  The issues of dual-use and mutual assured destruction are still on the table.  This presentation invites educators and researchers to consider new ways to leverage their expertise for conflict resolution.  We will discuss (lightly) history, arms negotiations, evolutionary biology, and make a proposal for parallel peace summits. 

2:00 to 2:45 - Presentation

Title: A Project and an Experiment using Kirchhoff's Laws 

Presenter: Ian Spangenberg, Pleasant Valley High School

Abstract: Kirchhoff's Laws are fundamental principles that govern the behavior of electrical circuits.  In this presentation, I will provide a brief overview of an educational project and experiment in which students predict and measure voltage and current across various circuit elements, enabling them to verify these laws and foster a deeper understanding of electrical principles in the classroom.  I will also discuss the impact of this activity on student engagement and comprehension.   

2:45 to 2:55 - Presentation

Title: A Useful Demonstration on Sound

Presenter:  Kevin Marasinghe, DMACC Faculty 

Abstract:  A simple demonstration of sound for physics.

2:55 to 3:00 - Presentation

Title:  Outreach and AAPT collaborations.

Presenter:  Dale Stille, University of Iowa

Abstract:  I will briefly discuss collaborations that the Department of Physics and Astronomy outreach programs make with other entities.  I will also highlight an AAPT grant that can be used to fund these collaborations or other outreach efforts.

3:00 - Adjourn the Meeting