ERC for Environmentally Benign Catalysis

Introducing K-12 Students to Green Engineering

Current research on science education confirms the adage that students learn best and are most engaged when they are actively involved in scientific research that is directly related to their everyday lives. Guided by this knowledge, education researchers at the Center for Environmentally Beneficial Catalysis (CEBC), an Engineering Research Center headquartered at the University of Kansas, have developed the first online collaborative research unit, hosted by Pathfinder Science, to address how "green" engineering impacts students. The research unit, with components targeting both elementary and secondary students, introduces students to the concepts of environmental assessment and green solvents by investigating the environmental impact of various technologies used by dry cleaners in their own communities.

The data and results of this research are available to anyone through the Pathfinder website, and can be further evaluated by comparing data generated by students worldwide with existing information on air and water quality. CEBC research is integrated into the background information for the student projects to reinforce the principles of green engineering and chemistry. Teachers and business owners also benefit from this research experience by learning about how environmentally responsible practices improve the quality of life in the community.

To learn more about this topic:
Visit the ERC for Environmentally Benign Catalysis Education page at http://www.cebc.ku.edu/education/outreach.html or go directly to the Pathfinder Science Web site at http://pathfinderscience.net/.

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The environmental impacts of dry cleaning are the
basis for a research unit aimed at precollege students.

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Last modified: April 9, 2006