Since 1999 CircLES peers have led the “Polarizers” Science Module for the Entering Students Program with the help of Dr. James Salvador from the Department of Chemistry.  “Polarizers” introduces students to the many uses of optical polarizers in science, engineering and everyday technology.  Students learn to make polarizers from ordinary household materials.  The module has included the creation and viewing of three-dimensional stereoscopic objects using an online parametric plotter, and the building and testing of a handheld polarimeter to measure air pollution.  “Polarizers” culminates with students filming a three-dimensional movie and a presentation that can only be viewed with polarizer glasses!  In the process students review mathematics and learn to work together. 

Friday, October 12, 2007

jsal at utep dot edu