Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Log inSign up
Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Blog
Job Board
Q3AS

© 2026 Aqora Quantum S.A.S.

TermsPrivacyLegal Notice

IEEE International Conference on Quantum Computing and Engineering (QCE)

Leveraging Dual Enrollment Programs to Expand Secondary Education in Quantum Computation

Derrick L Tucker

Published Sep 17, 2023• 6 citations
Publisher

Abstract

As practical quantum computers near fruition and the market for quantum technologies rapidly expands, there is a growing need for a quantum workforce prepared to carry quantum computation into the mainstream. Once primarily the domain of researchers and theoreticians, there has been a steady expansion of quantum information science into undergraduate coursework to build the requisite expertise in optics, computer science, engineering, and materials science that will be needed in the quantum industries of the near future. In order to better prepare students for post-secondary quantum coursework, it is important to scale up quantum education at the secondary level. This article details the work done at The University of Texas at Austin to pilot the first full-year high school course in optics-based quantum computing and to transition the course to a dual-enrollment model under the OnRamps distance education umbrella at The University of Texas at Austin in which college-aligned content is delivered to high schools across the state. Within this program, we are laying the groundwork for reaching a greater number of underrepresented students and improving participation in STEM fields through a unique combination of innovative pedagogy, technological-enhancement, and continuing professional development to deepen the expertise of high school teachers that deliver quantum computing coursework.

DOI
10.1109/qce57702.2023.20319

Related papers

Piloting a full-year, optics-based high school course on quantum computing

Joel A Walsh, Mic Fenech, Derrick L Tucker +2 more

Quantum computing was once regarded as a mere theoretical possibility, but recent advances in engineering and materials science have brought practical quantum computers closer to reality. Currently, representatives from industry, academia, and governments across the world are working to build the educational structures needed to produce the quantum workforce of the future. Less attention has been paid to growing quantum computing capacity at the high school level. This article details work at The University of Texas at Austin to develop and pilot the first full-year high school quantum computing class. Over the course of two years, researchers and practitioners involved with the project learned several pedagogical and practical lessons that can be helpful for quantum computing course design and implementation at the secondary level. In particular, we find that the use of classical optics provides a clear and accessible avenue for representing quantum states and gate operators and facilitates both learning and the transfer of knowledge to other Science, Technology, and Engineering (STEM) skills. Furthermore, students found that exploring quantum optical phenomena prior to the introduction of mathematical models helped in the understanding and mastery of the material.

arXiv:2112.15171•Physics Education•Dec 29, 2021•29 citations

Pathways to Quantum Science for High-School and Incoming College Students

Dan-Adrian German, Rebekah Randall, Charles Pope +2 more

The convergence of AI and quantum computing requires a new approach to cybersecurity. Credible experts estimate that by 2030 a cryptographically relevant quantum computer will be capable of breaking the encryption that underpins all of our digital communication. One of the most disruptive technology in history is coming and it's expected to change everything. In this context academic institutions will contribute to their states' future economic prosperity by leveraging their strengths and resources, particularly talent development, in key and emerging areas prioritized across the state. We report on current efforts to develop a Pathways Plus to Quantum Information Science (QIS) degree, a set of dual credit courses for high-school (HS) students and incoming college students pursuing a minor or specialization in Quantum Computing (QC). As of today, in the US, quantum topics appear on the HS curriculum standards in just two states: OH (Computing) and TX (Physics). Reaching out to HS and even middle school students (and their teachers) presents obvious long-term benefits in terms of workforce development for the quantum industrial ecosystem. Standing in the way of successful, widespread introduction of QC and QIS topics in HS and middle school are three distinct obstacles: (a) lack of materials at the right level for students and instructors, (b) funding and support for professional development for teachers, and (c) lack of state standards. In this paper we address all three aspects with a special focus on the benefits of quantum virtual labs and ZX calculus in the classroom.

physics.ed-phCross-listedarXiv:2608.12437•Aug 13, 2026•0 citations

Quantum Computing, Math, and Physics (QCaMP): Introducing Quantum Computing in High Schools

Megan Ivory, Alisa Bettale, Rachel Boren +9 more

The nascent but rapidly growing field of Quantum Information Science and Technology has led to an increased demand for skilled quantum workers and an opportunity to build a diverse workforce at the outset. In order to meet this demand and encourage women and underrepresented minorities in STEM to consider a career in QIST, we have developed a curriculum for introducing quantum computing to teachers and students at the high school level with no prerequisites. In 2022, this curriculum was delivered over the course of two one-week summer camps, one targeting teachers and another targeting students. Here, we present an overview of the objectives, curriculum, and activities, as well as results from the formal evaluation of both camps and the outlook for expanding QCaMP in future years.

arXiv:2309.16788•IEEE International Conference on Quantum Computing and Engineering (QCE)•Sep 17, 2023•11 citations

Introducing Quantum Computing to High-School Curricula: A Global Perspective

Maria Gragera Garces, Luis Gómez Orzechowski, Hernández, Juan Francisco Rodríguez

Quantum computing is an emerging field with growing implications across science and industry, making early educational exposure increasingly important. This paper examines how quantum computing concepts can be introduced into high-school STEM curricula within existing structures to enhance foundational learning in mathematics, computer science, and physics. We outline a modular integration strategy introducing key quantum ideas into standard courses, leveraging open-source educational resources to ensure global accessibility. Emphasis is placed on educational opportunity and equity: the approach is designed to be inclusive and to bridge current curricular gaps so that students worldwide can develop basic quantum literacy. Our analysis demonstrates that integrating quantum topics at the secondary level is feasible and can enrich STEM learning.

arXiv:2505.14809•May 20, 2025•3 citations

Integrating Quantum Computing into STEM Education via Personalized Learning

Oluwatoyin Akinbi, Mozhgan Nora Entekhabi, Hongmei Chi

This paper explores the integration of quantum computing (QC) into STEM curriculum education at higher education institutions, focusing on the dual objectives of workforce training and advancing cutting-edge research into curriculum development and hands-on labs. As the field of quantum computing rapidly evolves, there is a pressing need to equip minority students from diverse backgrounds with the skills necessary to participate in this transformative industry.The paper explores the process of developing a robust QC curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical, hands-on learning opportunities in personalized learning environments. It highlights initiatives aimed at equipping students with the skills necessary for conducting groundbreaking research in quantum computing. Through partnerships with academic institutions and industry collaboration, these programs aim to provide students with real-world exposure and mentorship. The findings emphasize the importance of inclusive education in the preparation of a diverse workforce capable of contributing to the future of quantum computing, innovation and application.

Interdisciplinary Conference on Electrics and Computer (INTCEC)•Sep 15, 2025•0 citations

Design of a quantum computing education program for high school students

Jung-In Choi, Hanjin Cho, Aeyoung Kim

This study aims to design and implement a quantum computing education program suitable for high school students, given the growing significance of quantum computing in diverse scientific and industrial fields. While quantum computing is rapidly gaining attention for its potential to revolutionize computational speed and address complex problems, the gap in early education for pre-university students remains notable, especially in South Korea. This research examined international and domestic trends in quantum computing education, developed an activity-based curriculum integrating simulation tools and collaborative problem solving, and applied it to a group of high school students. Through pre- and post-program surveys, activity sheets, and qualitative feedback, the results show a significant increase in students’ understanding and interest in quantum computing concepts such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum gates. The study highlights that an experiential, STEAM-integrated approach using visual and hands-on resources effectively lowers conceptual barriers and enhances engagement. However, challenges such as a lack of prior knowledge and limited educational materials persist. The research suggests policy and curriculum improvements as well as extended teacher training are required to bridge the global educational gap in quantum computing, and indicates that systematic integration of quantum concepts at the high school level is both feasible and impactful.

International Conference on Information and Communication Technology Convergence (ICTC)•Oct 14, 2025•0 citations
As practical quantum computers near fruition and the market for quantum technologies rapidly expands, there is a growing need for a quantum workforce prepared to carry quantum computation into the mainstream. Once primarily the domain of researchers and theoreticians, there has been a steady expansion of quantum information science into undergraduate coursework to build the requisite expertise in optics, computer science, engineering, and materials science that will be needed in the quantum industries of the near future. In order to better prepare students for post-secondary quantum coursework, it is important to scale up quantum education at the secondary level. This article details the work done at The University of Texas at Austin to pilot the first full-year high school course in optics-based quantum computing and to transition the course to a dual-enrollment model under the OnRamps distance education umbrella at The University of Texas at Austin in which college-aligned content is delivered to high schools across the state. Within this program, we are laying the groundwork for reaching a greater number of underrepresented students and improving participation in STEM fields through a unique combination of innovative pedagogy, technological-enhancement, and continuing professional development to deepen the expertise of high school teachers that deliver quantum computing coursework.
Quantum computing was once regarded as a mere theoretical possibility, but recent advances in engineering and materials science have brought practical quantum computers closer to reality. Currently, representatives from industry, academia, and governments across the world are working to build the educational structures needed to produce the quantum workforce of the future. Less attention has been paid to growing quantum computing capacity at the high school level. This article details work at The University of Texas at Austin to develop and pilot the first full-year high school quantum computing class. Over the course of two years, researchers and practitioners involved with the project learned several pedagogical and practical lessons that can be helpful for quantum computing course design and implementation at the secondary level. In particular, we find that the use of classical optics provides a clear and accessible avenue for representing quantum states and gate operators and facilitates both learning and the transfer of knowledge to other Science, Technology, and Engineering (STEM) skills. Furthermore, students found that exploring quantum optical phenomena prior to the introduction of mathematical models helped in the understanding and mastery of the material.
The convergence of AI and quantum computing requires a new approach to cybersecurity. Credible experts estimate that by 2030 a cryptographically relevant quantum computer will be capable of breaking the encryption that underpins all of our digital communication. One of the most disruptive technology in history is coming and it's expected to change everything. In this context academic institutions will contribute to their states' future economic prosperity by leveraging their strengths and resources, particularly talent development, in key and emerging areas prioritized across the state. We report on current efforts to develop a Pathways Plus to Quantum Information Science (QIS) degree, a set of dual credit courses for high-school (HS) students and incoming college students pursuing a minor or specialization in Quantum Computing (QC). As of today, in the US, quantum topics appear on the HS curriculum standards in just two states: OH (Computing) and TX (Physics). Reaching out to HS and even middle school students (and their teachers) presents obvious long-term benefits in terms of workforce development for the quantum industrial ecosystem. Standing in the way of successful, widespread introduction of QC and QIS topics in HS and middle school are three distinct obstacles: (a) lack of materials at the right level for students and instructors, (b) funding and support for professional development for teachers, and (c) lack of state standards. In this paper we address all three aspects with a special focus on the benefits of quantum virtual labs and ZX calculus in the classroom.
The nascent but rapidly growing field of Quantum Information Science and Technology has led to an increased demand for skilled quantum workers and an opportunity to build a diverse workforce at the outset. In order to meet this demand and encourage women and underrepresented minorities in STEM to consider a career in QIST, we have developed a curriculum for introducing quantum computing to teachers and students at the high school level with no prerequisites. In 2022, this curriculum was delivered over the course of two one-week summer camps, one targeting teachers and another targeting students. Here, we present an overview of the objectives, curriculum, and activities, as well as results from the formal evaluation of both camps and the outlook for expanding QCaMP in future years.
Quantum computing is an emerging field with growing implications across science and industry, making early educational exposure increasingly important. This paper examines how quantum computing concepts can be introduced into high-school STEM curricula within existing structures to enhance foundational learning in mathematics, computer science, and physics. We outline a modular integration strategy introducing key quantum ideas into standard courses, leveraging open-source educational resources to ensure global accessibility. Emphasis is placed on educational opportunity and equity: the approach is designed to be inclusive and to bridge current curricular gaps so that students worldwide can develop basic quantum literacy. Our analysis demonstrates that integrating quantum topics at the secondary level is feasible and can enrich STEM learning.
This paper explores the integration of quantum computing (QC) into STEM curriculum education at higher education institutions, focusing on the dual objectives of workforce training and advancing cutting-edge research into curriculum development and hands-on labs. As the field of quantum computing rapidly evolves, there is a pressing need to equip minority students from diverse backgrounds with the skills necessary to participate in this transformative industry.The paper explores the process of developing a robust QC curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical, hands-on learning opportunities in personalized learning environments. It highlights initiatives aimed at equipping students with the skills necessary for conducting groundbreaking research in quantum computing. Through partnerships with academic institutions and industry collaboration, these programs aim to provide students with real-world exposure and mentorship. The findings emphasize the importance of inclusive education in the preparation of a diverse workforce capable of contributing to the future of quantum computing, innovation and application.
This study aims to design and implement a quantum computing education program suitable for high school students, given the growing significance of quantum computing in diverse scientific and industrial fields. While quantum computing is rapidly gaining attention for its potential to revolutionize computational speed and address complex problems, the gap in early education for pre-university students remains notable, especially in South Korea. This research examined international and domestic trends in quantum computing education, developed an activity-based curriculum integrating simulation tools and collaborative problem solving, and applied it to a group of high school students. Through pre- and post-program surveys, activity sheets, and qualitative feedback, the results show a significant increase in students’ understanding and interest in quantum computing concepts such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum gates. The study highlights that an experiential, STEAM-integrated approach using visual and hands-on resources effectively lowers conceptual barriers and enhances engagement. However, challenges such as a lack of prior knowledge and limited educational materials persist. The research suggests policy and curriculum improvements as well as extended teacher training are required to bridge the global educational gap in quantum computing, and indicates that systematic integration of quantum concepts at the high school level is both feasible and impactful.