MinerAlert
MinerAlert
The College of Engineering, Computer Science Department is helping to prepare the next generation for a digital future. Through a program that trains middle and high school teachers, The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is bringing advanced computer science skills, like artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity, directly into local classrooms.
The Cybersecurity Research Experience for Educators through Data Science (CREEDS) program, supported by the National Science Foundation, brings educators from across the region to UTEP for a hands-on summer research experience. The goal is to not only teach them about cutting-edge technology but also to show them new ways to teach these topics so their students can better understand them.
The role of computer science (CS) in today’s technology-driven economy cannot be overstated. As digital innovation continues to redefine every industry, CS is expected to be a major driver of employment and economic growth in the coming decade. The rapid adoption of smart devices and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is transforming traditional computing into a dynamic field that delivers innovative solutions to societal challenges.
“CREEDS has enabled a bridge of collaboration between UTEP faculty and our regional school districts to nurture future computing enthusiasts by offering unique educational experiences through the educators,” said Deepak Tosh, Ph.D., principal investigator and associate professor of computer science.
This summer marks the third and final year of the CREEDS program. “Over the past three summers, CREEDS has created a unique opportunity for teachers and UTEP groups to grow together. The program has helped over 30 passionate middle and high-school teachers to explore forefront research in AI, cybersecurity, and data science,” said Martine Ceberio, Ph.D., co-principal investigator and computer science professor. “By blending research and teaching, CREEDS empowers teachers to share their new expertise in their classrooms—broadening students’ horizons, expanding opportunities, and ensuring that youth in our region gain a leading edge through early exposure to cutting-edge work in emerging technologies.”
Since the program began, teachers from seven school districts have participated in the program, supported by three lead investigators, six faculty mentors, more than eight guest speakers, and nine student assistants. Partners including El Paso Intelligence Center, Sandia National Laboratories, and the El Paso Community Foundation contributed to workshops, mentoring sessions, and site visits, helping participants understand how computer science concepts connect to real-world innovation.
“CREEDS provided a pathway for the integration of relevant computer science practices and habits of mind that extends from the students in local secondary schools to UTEP through the participating teachers and faculty involved,” said William H. Robertson, Ph.D., co-principal investigator and teacher education professor.
Among this year’s participants was Dora Jones. Jones joined the program to stay up to date on emerging technologies that are shaping the future workforce. “I was motivated to join the CREEDS program to stay current on AI and cybersecurity,” she said. “These are new and growing industries that students should learn about and consider pursuing careers in.” Through her experience, Jones gained hands-on exposure to tools and concepts she now brings back to her classroom.
The program’s hands-on modules, equip teachers with ready-to-use classroom activities that make complex topics accessible to their students. These modules have provided vital exposure to AI and cybersecurity, topics not typically included in traditional middle and high school curriculum. With the help of material stipends, teachers have been able to creatively engage their students in learning these advanced concepts, and many students have expressed appreciation for how the program has reinforced their computer science and problem-solving skills.
Reflecting on the program’s impact, Kenith Meissner, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Engineering, said: “CREEDS exemplifies UTEP’s mission of access, excellence, and impact. By investing in teachers, we are investing in students and in the future of our region. The educators who complete this program become ambassadors for computer science, inspiring young minds to explore innovation, problem-solving, and discovery.”
CREEDS ended this summer, but its influence will continue to ripple through classrooms, connecting students to the expanding world of technology and research. The program stands as a model for how universities and schools can work together to strengthen computer science education and build a more digitally literate, innovative future for the El Paso community and beyond.
For more information about CREEDS, please visit: www.utep.edu/creeds