PERC 2025 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Design and impact of a quantum science-fiction writing course |
|---|---|
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
| Abstract: | In Spring 2025, we launched the course "Writing Quantum Steampunk: Science-Fiction Workshop" at the University of Maryland, College Park. Students concurrently studied quantum science and wrote short science-fiction stories, both activities focusing on 'quantum steampunk'. This term conveys the intersection of quantum information science and thermodynamics, inspired by the steampunk subgenre of science fiction, which integrates elements from the industrial revolution. Here, we present details of the course design, comprising science lectures, creative-writing assignments, workshopping sessions, and quizzes. We also present results of pre- and post-course surveys designed to probe students' attitudes, knowledge, and motivations. We couple these results with quiz outcomes to assess the course's impact. Ongoing work involves textual analysis of submitted story assignments. Altogether, this work helps illuminate how intersecting quantum-science learning and creative writing might impact individuals' knowledge about quantum-science concepts, ability to communicate those concepts, and use of those concepts in creative expression. |
| Session Time: | Poster Session B |
| Poster Number: | B-126 |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Daniel Serrano University of Maryland, College Park |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Krish Butani, Khan Lab School & Foothill College Edward Daschle, University of Maryland, College Park Nicole Yunger Halpern, National Institute of Standards and Technology & University of Maryland, College Park |
