Fostering Science for the Next Generation | Petra van Koppen Ph.D. | TEDxUCSB

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Dr. van Koppen describes her work in scientific outreach to elementary school students and how that outreach has impacted those students for the better.

Petra Van Koppen received her Ph.D. degree from UCSB in 1984. Dr. van Koppen’s research has focused primarily on transition metal ion chemistry in the gas phase in collaboration with Professor Bowers.
Over the last four years Dr. van Koppen’s research focus has turned to education. Not only has she developed a number of labs and published two general chemistry lab manuals, but Dr. van Koppen has also started an outreach program to excite K-12 students about science, as well as to help students transition from high school to college and college to graduate school.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)