When Traditional Research is Delayed: Bridging the Gap between K-12 and the University through LAZARUS

Abstract

LAZARUS is the Lab for the Analysis of Zombie Activity and Research into Undead Simulations. LAZARUS began in 2014 through a [UNIVERSITY] and [ISD] partnership, aimed at engaging K-12 students in rigorous research in a unique way. This partnership was the initial driving force in the conceptualization and creation of a super-computer known as the Schoenberg Cluster. With hopes of immediately being assembled and used as a high-power supercomputer, the Schoenberg Cluster took time to build because of delays in design, coding, and building. During this delay, LAZARUS became a community engagement and outreach tool expanded to K-12 districts across the state. LAZARUS has been used to engage primarily Hispanic, rural, and underserved students in STEM fields, through use of technology and ideas which are usually inaccessible for these students and districts. Using the LAZARUS project as a guide, additional best practices will be given to replicate and utilize similar approaches for future traditional research to be expanded to engage the community.