The QoLT RET program is seeking six teachers to work with QoLT ERC researchers on topics such as home safety, data-driven inside-out vision, and memory aids for individuals with dementia. Through these activities, the QoLT RET program will:

Engage educators in cross-disciplinary research with QoLT students, researchers, and clinicians in the fields of engineering, rehabilitation sciences, and social sciences, emphasizing the significant role of end users in engineering research

Prepare educators to introduce and integrate emerging QoLT technology in the classroom

Sensitize educators to common concerns, barriers, and stereotypes experienced by older individuals and people with disabilities

Create a pipeline of opportunities and personal contacts for students interested in pursuing engineering studies

Intellectual Merit

The QoLT RET will not only expose these six teachers to technical knowledge for intelligent devices systems, and technology-embedded environments that will improve the lives of individuals with special needs, but also enhance appreciation and sensitivity for disability and aging. Teachers will be involved in research projects that use recent advances in intelligent systems including machine perception, robotics, learning, communication, and miniaturization. Participating teachers will be able to:

Recognize and apply appropriate research methods to their QoLT research experience

Describe common concerns, barriers, and stereotypes experienced by older individuals and people with disabilities

Gain an understanding of how human functions (physiological, physical, and cognitive) relate to the design of intelligent devices and systems that aid and interact with people

Develop new QoLT curriculum that incorporates accessibility problems, and engineering solutions related to housing, commercial and public facilities, outdoor environments and/or products

Details

Middle - and high-school, math, science and pre-engineering teachers are eligible for this six-week on-site summer program (240 contact hours). QoLT representatives will visit teachers in the classroom during the academic year to assess progress with QoLT lesson plans. The teachers will participate in two half-day curriculum workshops during the academic year with QoLT researchers at CMU/Pitt campuses. The teachers will receive $25/hour stipends for participating in workshops and for meetings during academic year.

To apply for the RET the following items are required, 1) a completed application form with resume and personal statement attached 2) at least one letter of reference (see the reference form).

Please send completed application via EMAIL to Sondra Balouris, and ask your referee to send the reference form directly to Sondra Balouris.