RET FAQs
Below are Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the RET Program:
What does RET stand for?
RET stands for Research Experience for Teachers and is a wonderful professional development opportunity for math and science teachers funded by the National Science Foundation.
When is the RET program?
The Team-RET program runs for six weeks during the summer. For 2009, the dates are June 29 - August 7, with the daily schedule being from about 9am-4:30pm, Monday through Thursday and about 9am-2pm on Friday. There are no activities scheduled for weekends or on Friday, July 3 in observance of the 4th of July holiday.
The Independent-RET program runs for eight weeks during the summer. For 2009, the dates are June 29 - August 21.
What is the difference between the Team-RET and Independent-RET programs?
In the Team-RET program (sometimes referred to as RET I), teachers work as a team to learn the fundamentals of materials research and gain hands-on laboratory experience primarily in CCMR's Shared Experimental Facilities. In the Independent-RET program (sometimes referred to as RET II), teachers are matched with a Cornell faculty member to investigate an independent research topic.
Who is eligible for the Team-RET program?
To be eligible for the Team-RET program you must be a US citizen or permanent resident and teach math, science or technology in in a US middle school, high school or community college.
Who is eligible for the Individual-RET program?
Only teachers who have completed the CCMR Team-RET program are eligible for the Individual-RET program.
How do I apply?
To apply to the Team-RET program you must complete an online application and submit required doumantation. Directions for applying can be found on our How to Apply page. To apply for the Individual-RET program, contact the CCMR Educational Programs Office to obtain an application.
Where is the RET program held?
Both the Team- and Independent-RET programs are held at the Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR) on the Cornell University campus in Ithaca, New York.
How much does it cost?
The RET program does not cost you anything. In fact, we pay you a stipend.
How much is the stipend?
The 2009 Team-RET stipend will be $3,800.
Is housing available?
Yes, for teachers who require housing, CCMR will pay for on-campus housing for the duration of the program.
Is college credit available for participation in the program?
No, we're sorry to say that college credit is not available; however professional development hours are available. Upon request, a letter can be sent to your school administrator detailing the number of hours you participated in the program.
What research facilities will the Team RET program cover?
Teachers in the Team-RET program will spend time in the following CCMR facilities as well as other research facilities across campus:
- X-Ray Diffraction Facility
- Integrated Advanced Microscopy Facilities
- Hudson Mesoscale Processing Facility
- Materials Research Support Facility
- Polymer Characterization Facility
Are there other RET programs?
Yes, there are many RET programs across the country, focusing on a wide range of topics. The RET Network (www.retnetwork.org/retsites.html) has a large listing of RET programs, but is far from comprehensive.
