Inspiration
A quantum computing facility is coming to Chicago’s South Side. For a student living nearby, that announcement raises a much more personal question:
“What does this mean for me?”
The Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park (IQMP) inspired us to think about who gets to participate when a new technology arrives. Proximity alone does not give someone the knowledge, connections, or confidence to get involved.
We built Quantum Routes around a simple belief: communities should help shape their technological future.
The problem and who we serve
Our primary audience is South Side middle school, high school and early undergraduate students, with particular attention to Black students and learners with limited access to STEM networks. The experience welcomes the wider Chicago community.
For someone encountering quantum computing for the first time, the path from curiosity to participation can feel disconnected. Technical explanations can be intimidating, educational resources are scattered, and career opportunities can seem reserved for people with advanced physics degrees.
We wanted to connect three questions:
- What is quantum computing?
- Why does it matter to my neighborhood?
- What can I do next?
What it does
Quantum Routes is an independent, interactive community guide that connects neighborhood context, approachable learning, and practical next steps.
Visitors can:
- Understand the local connection: Learn about IQMP and consider questions about education, jobs, and community benefits.
- Explore the science: Use a quantum playground to investigate bits, qubits, and simplified quantum experiments.
- See the hardware: Explore photographs showing what quantum computing equipment actually looks like.
- Find a learning pathway: Explore educational stages, interests, and resources, including college and alternatives to a four-year degree.
- Prepare to participate: Save a next step and develop questions about the neighborhood’s technological future.
We bring these experiences together so curiosity has somewhere to go.
How we built it
We built the prototype with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, using browser-based interactions and local storage for saved plans.
We chose a lightweight website so visitors could explore without creating an account or providing sensitive personal information. Our pathway flows use explicit choices and curated resources.
We used public information from organizations including IQMP, the Chicago Quantum Exchange, Discovery Partners Institute, and educational providers. Third-party photographs and resources are credited. We also used ChatGPT for coding, content drafting, and design assistance.
The playground uses simplified educational models running in the browser; it does not execute programs on a quantum computer.
Challenges we faced
One challenge was making quantum computing engaging without creating misleading shortcuts. We needed to explain the differences between classical and quantum computing while avoiding the impression that quantum computers are faster at everything.
Another was making pathways encouraging without suggesting that completing a program guarantees employment at IQMP. Eligibility, deadlines, and available opportunities require ongoing verification.
We also had to narrow our scope. Our prototype helps people understand and take an initial step; it is not a complete curriculum or job-placement service.
What we learned
We learned that explaining technology is only part of making it accessible. People also need to understand its relevance, recognize a place for themselves, and identify an achievable action.
Designing around a student’s questions helped us connect scientific concepts with community participation.
Expected impact and next steps
We have not yet measured community outcomes. Our proposed first evaluation is a 20-student pilot, with targets to:
- Help 14 students (70%) accurately explain one quantum concept.
- Help 16 students (80%) identify a relevant opportunity and check its eligibility.
- Have 10 students (50%) report visiting a resource or beginning an activity within two weeks.
These are proposed targets, not achieved results.
Next, we want to co-design with students and educators, test accessibility and usability, verify resource links, and revise the experience using pilot feedback.
Our goal is for a student to leave thinking: “This is happening in my community—and I have a way to get involved.”
Built With
- css3
- html5
- javascript
- web-storage-api-(localstorage)
