The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Summer Math-Science-Technology Institute is a two-week summer program that provides middle and high school students and teachers from the Appalachian region the opportunity to work with scientists from ORNL on inquiry-based, applied projects in science, math, and research-related computer technology. The ARC Summer Institute is administered for ARC by ORAU. The ARC Summer Institute culminates with group presentations by students and teachers about their projects and research findings. In addition to research, many other activities are incorporated into the program to promote teamwork, expose students to college opportunities, and promote pride in the cultural richness and historical importance of the Appalachian region.
The goals of the ARC program are to (1) encourage more students to continue their studies beyond high school; (2) encourage more students to pursue careers in the projected shortage areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and (3) raise the quality of STEM instruction in schools throughout the region. Progress in each of these three areas provides economic benefits to the Appalachian region. An overview of the Appalachian Regional Commission and its goals and activities can be found at www.arc.gov.