Only a small fraction of students know the existence of Materials Science as a discipline before they enter college. Meanwhile, materials science nowadays is not only the cornerstone of all modern manufacturing but also the enabler of new information, nano- and quantum technologies. In the guest lecture in Rice Engineering Research Symposium for Teachers, Hanyu discussed the importance of connecting materials and quantum concepts with the societal needs and careers in emergent industries in K-12 educations, as well as basic techniques to present these concepts. Exit survey showed that 43% participants would like to teach more about materials in their classroom and/or science clubs, and 91% of them want to try demonstration kits once available. These feedbacks will help to develop new effective ways to engage K-12 students in specialized engineering fields.
