Quantum computing has grown in prominence as both a research field and in the industry. According to the Quantum Technology Monitor analysis done by McKinsey in 2023, industries can stand to gain up to $1.3 trillion in value by the year 2035. The expansion of the field – and its projected overlap with the likes of the automotive, life sciences, and chemical industries – is undeniable. The report by McKinsey also indicates nearly two-thirds of open jobs in the industry could be filled by new master’s level graduates with a specialty in quantum technologies in 2022. The reality is that only a select few institutions offer quantum technology degrees or pathways. This presents a talent gap in quantum computing. Thus, an in-depth look at early education in quantum computing is necessary.
The Case for Early Education
Involvement in quantum computing research and development requires advanced mathematics and science. Depending on the subfield of quantum computing, this may include intense quantum mechanics, deep knowledge of programming language development, or a heavy foundation in theoretical computer science.
As such, early exposure to quantum information science could be the difference between students choosing to pursue this advanced learning pathway and not.
What Early Education in Quantum Computing Looks Like
Some states have already made the move to add quantum computing to their K-12 curricula. This follows from a 2020 collaboration between the White House and National Science Foundation intended to encourage young student involvement in quantum computing.
Known as the National Q-12 Education Partnership, this effort will allocate over $1 million towards quantum education. The partnership pulls in industry magnates – such as Amazon Web Services, Zapata Computing, Google, IBM, IEEE-USA, and many more – as founding members.
Around the United States, interest in quantum computing has blossomed. Earlier this summer, Cleveland State University and the Cleveland Metropolitan School District collaborated. Together, they brought quantum education materials to local high schoolers in Northeast Ohio’s Cleveland Clinic. Excitement was garnered among the students. “I’m excited to see how life will become easier for us on an everyday level. It’s a lot of things that it can help us with that we don’t even realize,” high school sophomore Harlei McCoy said to WKYC Studios.
Similar efforts have been made in Texas, alongside broader initiatives, such as the Quantum For All workshops offered by the University of Texas at Arlington in Texas, Ohio, and New York.
To remain on the cutting edge of technology, the current generation of industry professionals, researchers, and educators shoulder the responsibility to encourage curiosity in the next generation. With consistent efforts, the hope is that this talent gap will close. In simple words: the importance of garnering excitement to learn through early education in quantum computing can not be understated.
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