Gary A. Ybarra is a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Duke University, an expert in microwave imaging and director of undergraduate studies in his department. But he’s also a keen proponent of improving STEM education at the K-12 level, and devotes a big part of his research time to that goal. He’s created and directs a Duke-base organization called Engineering K-Ph.D., which encourages kids, especially girls and under-represented minorities, to pursue science-related careers. Last week, because of that work, he was one of nine persons honored with a “Sammie” award by the Cook Society, a 13-year-old group devoted to recognizing and celebrating the African American presence at Duke, according to the university’s press office. The award is named after Samuel DuBois Cook, who was a distinguished Duke political scientist and activist.

Ybarra’s Engineering K-Ph.D. uses various programs he’s devised to teach youngsters the process of problem-solving and how to think critically and analytically. For example, Math Understanding through Science Integrated with Curriculum (MUSIC), combines standard course studies with engineering problem-solving tasks so that math and science concepts are placed in meaningful contexts to students. Duke undergraduate and graduate students spend 10 hours a week in North Carolina schools helping teachers create hands-on activities. Ybarra says he hopes Engineering K-Ph.D., which receives federal funding, will establish itself as a national model.

Image from Duke University.

More K-12 Education News

Filed under: K-12 Education News