The Utah High School Computing Institute

Professor Cohen created the High School Institute over seven years ago with the goal of bringing students from outlying and mostly rural areas of Utah in contact with computer technologies integral to the future of design and manufacturing. 40-50 students a year spend five intensive weeks during the summer on campus at the University of Utah completing projects in computer aided design, artificial intelligence, and scientific visualization. The students also attend a special seminar on ethics and technology. Participants return throughout the year for additional activities, including a workshop on morphing. This paper discusses the cultural and logistical challenges of teaching high school students from many areas of the state of Utah, shows examples of student work, and outlines the process of refining the summer and year long lectures and activities