Submitted by:
Sheryl Burgstahler, Ph. D.
Assistant Director, Information Systems
Computing and Communications
University of Washington
JE-41
Seattle, WA 98195 USA
v: (206) 543-0622
f: (206) 543-0831
e: sherylb@cac.washington.edu
Categories:
Education, K12; Education, higher; Research, academic; Opportunities for people with disabilities
Keywords:
Innovative or improved ways of doing things; More equitable access to technology or electronic information; Creation of new ideas, products, or services; Technology transfer; Leverage of public funding; Volunteer contributions of time and energy; Partnerships between public and private sector
Supporting Documentation (contact author for more information):
Documentation
The Story:
DO-IT
in Science, Engineering, and Mathematics at the University of Washington
The University of Washington is increasing efforts to recruit students with disabilities into science, engineering, and mathematics programs. Applications are encouraged from Sophomores in high schools in the Northwest who wish to participate in a program called Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology (DO-IT) in Science, Engineering, and Mathematics.
The DO-IT Program
This program enables students to explore careers in science, engineering, and mathematics and to gain prerequisite knowledge to enter these fields of study and employment. The National Science Foundation provides most of the financial support for this program, with additional contributions from NorthWestNet and the University of Washington. Activities include:
Internetworking: Through frequent electronic communications and personal contacts, this program brings high school students with disabilities together with college students, faculty and practicing engineers and scientists, some with disabilities themselves. Participants communicate electronically from home using a computer, modem, software, Internet network connections, and, if necessary, special adaptive technology. Participants who do not have the required technology already are loaned equipment and software as long as they continue to participate in program activities.
Summer Study: Each participant studies engineering, mathematics, and science by participating in lectures and labs and using computer applications and educational software, electronic mail, and resources on the Internet network at two live-in summer camps held on the Seattle campus of the University of Washington. Students will not be charged for instructional materials, housing, meals, and recreational activities. Meals and housing are provided for personal care attendants who accompany participants. Accommodations to facilitate a successful academic experience, such as interpreters for those with hearing impairments, are provided.
Application Process
This program is designed for students with disabilities who have an interest in science, engineering, or mathematics as a career and who are in their Sophomore year of high school. For further information or to request application materials in standard print, large print, Braille, or audiotape, contact the DO-IT Project Director, Sheryl Burgstahler, University of Washington, JE-41, Seattle, WA 98195. PHONE: (206) 543- 0622, FAX: 543-0831, EMAIL: sherylb@cac.washington.edu
Organizations involved
- University of Washington
- National Science Foundation
- K-12 schools
- Volunteer mentors from companies and universities
- UW West Computer companies
- NorthWestNet
