With the support of our faculty, the project titled “Journey to STEM Based Photonics Literacy and Awareness Module: FoTEM” has been awarded support from TUBİTAK.

The project titled “Journey to STEM-Based Photonics Literacy and Awareness Module: FoTEM”, in which our faculty member Assoc. Prof. Dr. Umut AYDEMİR is a researcher, has received support in the 1st semester of 2024. The project also includes researchers from BUÜ Faculty of Education and Izmir Institute of Technology Photonics Department, consisting of an interdisciplinary team.

The project will be led by Prof. Dr. Salih Çepni, Dean of the Faculty of Education and one of the faculty members of the Department of Science Education, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Umut AYDEMİR, faculty member of the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering of our Faculty, will be the researcher. 
The project aims to develop educational materials and introduce photonics to teachers and students in order to increase awareness and literacy about photonics, which is mentioned as one of the key technologies of the 21st century by the European Commission and one of the priority areas in our country.

Photonics is a science and technology field focused on the interaction of light and electricity, playing a crucial role in many daily technologies. As its importance grows in the 21st century, it remains largely unrecognized by the public, with many unaware of its significance or the demand for skilled professionals. To address this, it's essential to educate students about photonics, fostering awareness and literacy. This will also help develop talented individuals who can contribute to our economy and utilize future job opportunities in this vital field.