Mission
Princeton Center for Complex Materials (PCCM) Education Outreach aims to increase awareness and knowledge of materials science and all sciences. We are committed to the belief that every citizen needs to be scientifically literate to effectively assess social issues and make informed decisions that will affect our world. Science is a tool that allows us to better understand the natural world. Every student should be taught to think critically and scientifically in order to make sound decisions in their life. These necessary skills will help people informed decisions.
PCCM Education Outreach is a nexus between the science research world and the formal education world. We develop programs that involve our researchers in the best way possible to maximize the great intellectual capital we have at PCCM. In particular, we harness the content and enthusiasm of our scientists and engineers in a way that makes sense for teachers, students and the general public. As education outreach professionals, we have an understanding of the regional and local education issues, both informal and formal. We work with schools to effectively design programs that improve student learning and motivation. We are familiar with education research and are constantly working to improve the efficiency of our programs and the way we evaluate them.
Our expertise allows us to incorporate real, cutting edge science researchers and science and engineering research into education. We help PCCM researchers satisfy NSF’s broader impacts with education programs guided by education research. PCCM Education programs foster an engaging, rewarding experience for students and teachers, and equally important, for the researchers themselves.
Commitment to Diversity
With the country’s changing population and growing need for a competitive edge in the global economy, it is every citizen’s best interest to improve diversity in the fields of science and engineering. PCCM’s education outreach programs are aimed at engaging underrepresented groups at all levels of education, as well as improving science education for all students.