Product Code: JLA_6_3_179

Authors:
Steven S. Lympany
Laser & Electro‐Optics Technology, Central Carolina Community College, Lillington, NC 27546, U.S.A.

Laser technology has progressed to the point that most elementary through high school students are familiar with one or more laser applications. However, many of these students have not had the opportunity to witness a laser in acton where they can touch it and see it directly. In addition, most students are unaware of the career possibilities the field of laser technology has to offer. This paper presents the specifics of a successful laser‐based program that has been offered to K‐12 students and teachers in North Carolina over the last five years. Specifically, it outlines the format of the program, provides a listing of equipment and supplies used, provides example materials for successful hands‐on experiments that have been used, and relays some useful feedback from students and teachers that helps to ensure the success of similar programs.