January 17, 2025 -- The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo and collaborators have secured USD$25,000 from the American Physical Society’s (APS) Innovation Fund to fund the Quantum Explorations Student Toolbox (QuEST) project.

The QuEST kits are designed to help educators teach elementary and high-school aged students the fundamentals of quantum mechanics principles and explain modern and future applications like quantum computing and communication.

IQC collaborated with Taylor Pacholko at University of Waterloo’s Department of Physics and Astronomy and Matthew Robbins, assistant professor, teaching stream, in the Department of Physics at the University of Toronto, to secure the funding. The team will design, assemble and distribute the kits, that include hands-on activities on quantum phenomena like interference, superposition, and uncertainty. They will also include video and written explainers to ensure educators are comfortable with the material.

“IQC has over a decade of expertise teaching people about quantum science and technology and with this funding we can spread that knowledge across Canada and to communities that have limited access to outreach materials.”, said Dr. John Donohue, senior manager of scientific outreach at IQC and principal investigator of the project.

Tremaine Brittian, innovation program manager at APS, says the organization is excited to support this program to foster a deeper understanding of quantum concepts and the opportunities quantum science presents.

She says the initiative addresses critical gaps in education, which aligns with the goals of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology and APS's 2024 Innovation Fund.

“We are particularly enthusiastic about its focus on Canada and its efforts to engage diverse global audiences—one of the main objectives of this year's Innovation Fund. This initiative specifically targets girls, and underserved communities—groups that often disengage from STEM subjects by middle school. Experts recommend introducing quantum concepts early in education, and this project meets that requirement through relatable, hands-on activities designed to make the field more approachable.”, said Tremaine Brittian, innovation program manager, APS.

There are two kit versions. One is a micro kit, tailored to middle-school audiences with visual and easy-to-use activities. It is transportable and can be used to support educators and reach students in remote areas. A more expansive version is tailored to high-school classrooms and science fairs and includes a deeper exploration of quantum protocols and technologies.

IQC’s nine QuEST partners across Canada — from B.C. to Newfoundland and Labrador — will use the kits to reach thousands of students, including Let’s Talk Science, which provides classrooms across Canada with programs and resources to keep students engaged with science, technology, engineering and math subjects.

“Let’s Talk Science is delighted to partner on the QuEST initiative to bring quantum exploration to elementary and high school students with engaging content.  With Outreach Sites across Canada, Let’s Talk Science will use QuEST kits to help equip our network of volunteers to inspire students to learn about quantum technologies. Celebrating the International Year of Quantum, this collaboration will inspire participants to engage with quantum science in innovative new ways.”,said Dr. Bonnie Schmidt, president and founder of Let's Talk Science.

Donohue adds that the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology is a great opportunity to celebrate and teach quantum science and increase public engagement and understanding of the field.