Advancing Accessibility in Engineering Education

Title

Advancing Accessibility in Engineering Education

Organization

UW

Description:

Accessibility for students with learning challenges is an increasingly important focus in Engineering Education. As part of this IEEE Nanotechnology Council Summer Internship, we will explore the key obstacles faced by students and evaluate existing
technologies designed to address accessibility challenges.

Additionally, we seek to identify and discuss potential new technologies that could enhance accessibility and support within engineering-focused education. This summer, we will initiate discussions on these topics with colleagues and are looking for volunteer research interns to conduct background research and synthesize findings into a technical report. In the initial phase, this work will center on accessibility within a quantum mechanics course for engineers and material scientists, along with its accompanying textbook.

The mentee will also explore how emerging AI technologies can contribute to making engineering education more equitable for students requiring enhanced accessibility.

This is a unique mentorship suited for independent and self-motivated students with strong writing skills and a deep interest in educational accessibility.

Please Note:

While knowledge of math, physics, programming, or machine learning may be helpful, this role is specifically designed for those eager to develop interdisciplinary skills beyond these traditional areas. If you are seeking a more conventional internship experience, please check out our other summer opportunities.

This project is part of the IEEE Nanotechnology Council Summer Internship

Research component:
Yes

Student Grade(s):
US-resident high school students in grades 11-12 during the 2025-2026 school year.
US citizens or Permanent residents

Student Requirements for Participation:

• Interest in accessibility.
• The student should have access to a major library facility.
• This project has weekly deadlines and requires frequent meetings with the team.
• Should not be doing more than one internship at a time, or involved in any other research projects for the duration of this project

Stipend:

No

Location:

Seattle

Mode:
Remote

Project Duration (weeks):
8

Project weekly Commitment (hours):

25

Project Start Date:
June 30, 2026

Project Cost to attend if selected:

$250.00

Will be used to sponsor a scholarship for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Deadline to apply:

May 2, 2026 11:59 pm PST