Dr. Tan has been leading an NSF-funded RET Site program at MSU since 2009, including the RET Site on Bio-Inspired Technology and Systems (BITS) from 2009-2012, and the renewal Site on Robotics Engineering for Better Life and Sustainable Future from 2013-2016 . The Site provides research training and other professional development opportunities for about 10 middle and high school teachers in the greater Lansing-Detroit-Grand Rapids area every year. Over ten faculty members from multiple engineering departments serve as mentors for these teachers. RET participants conduct research in faculty mentors’ labs, and develop innovative curriculum based on their research experiences.
- MSU news release for BITS Site
- Video interview in Youtube
- MSU news release for Robotics Engineering Site
Mr. John Thon, technology teacher from Holt Junior High School, has been a member of SML since the summer of 2008, supported by an RET supplement to Dr. Tan’s NSF CAREER project. He plays an active role in the lab’s research thrust on robotic fish development. He is also transitioning his research experiences to classroom practices through curriculum innovation.
