In this episode of CivicSciTV’s “The Perspective,” host Diya Dwarakanath explores quantum science with guests Gina Lorenz, Paul Kwiat, and Smitha Vishweshwara who are faculty members in the Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. The conversation delves into public engagement initiatives, such as the Public Quantum Network, LabEscape, and the CASCaDe Collective, which aim to make quantum science accessible and engaging.

What action(s) did the insights from the conversation inspire you to do? Let us know here: https://shorturl.at/cQi4E

Lorenz talks about the challenges and successes of launching the Public Quantum Network, which seeks to bring quantum concepts to K-12 education and beyond. She states, “If we make quantum technology accessible to a wide range of people, the possible applications that might arise are beyond our imagination.”

Kwiat shares insights into LabEscape, a science-themed escape room designed to teach quantum mechanics interactively. He notes, “Science can be very popular if it’s presented correctly, in a way where we can expose people to these quantum concepts in a non-threatening and fun context.”

Vishweshwara starts by describing her experience doing Lorenz and Kwiat’s outreach activities. “Seeing the physics, that you know deeply, in action being portrayed in such clever ways was amazing,” she says.

She introduces the CASCaDe Collective, which blends art and science through theater to explain complex quantum ideas: “Quantum Voyages is an adventure tale of two voyagers going into the quantum realm, guided by sapiens of the spirit of wisdom.” Vishveshwara points out, “Creativity and imagination is really the thing that scientists and artists share.”

The guests emphasize the importance of public involvement in quantum science. Kwiat remarks, “It’s always important to start with what people know and move from that. Engaging with the community helps us get the right perspective.”

They also discuss the upcoming International Year of the Quantum in 2025, a global initiative to raise awareness & education about quantum science. Vishweshwara highlights the value of educating young minds: “Through educating our young, we ourselves learn deeper and foster curiosity that leads to new research and innovation.” Lorenz adds, “It’s amazing how quickly the public gets down to the foundational question of what really is entanglement, and that is still an open question.”

This episode provides a look into how scientists are working to bridge the gap between advanced research and public understanding, aiming to inspire a new generation to explore quantum technology.

Some Actionable Insights

1. Public Feedback Loop: Involve local communities in the development and progression of quantum technology to gain new perspectives and innovative ideas.
2. Engage Diverse Audiences: Create programs that intentionally consider various demographics, from K-12 students to adults, to foster widespread understanding and interest in quantum science.
3. Focus on Young Minds: Prioritize educating young students as their curiosity and understanding can lead to future advancements in the field.
4. Interactive Learning: Develop interactive and fun educational tools to teach quantum concepts in an engaging way.
5. Promote Global Initiatives: Support and participate in initiatives like the International Year of the Quantum to raise awareness and education about quantum science on a global scale.

Useful Links
Joseph Keller on CivicSciTV’s Question of The Day: https://bit.ly/3XssMh2

Watch the Public Quantum Network Launch Event: https://bit.ly/4cp5JrD
Can you escape the quantum escape room? https://labescape.org/
Sit in a theater and enter quantum realms: https://cascade.illinois.edu/

Gina Lorenz Profile: https://physics.illinois.edu/people/directory/profile/vlorenz
Paul Kwiat Profile: https://physics.illinois.edu/people/directory/profile/kwiat
Smitha Vishveshwara Profile: https://physics.illinois.edu/people/directory/profile/smivish
Joseph Keller’s Paper: https://brookings.edu/articles/u-s-quantum-leadership-may-hinge-on-public-perceptions/

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