Addressing broader impacts through K-12 outreach in materials education

Abstract

Researchers worldwide recognize the importance of inspiring the next generation of scientists through outreach activities. U.S. researchers have additional motivation in that many funding agencies are now requiring kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12) outreach as part of fundable research plans. Unfortunately, many of these same researchers know little about the precollege educational community or about the educational system that supports that community. This special issue acts as a reference and provides pointers to the many opportunities available for materials education outreach, along with suggestions and advice on how both the novice and experienced researcher may contribute. © 2011 Materials Research Society.