Call for Applications Now Open for Vernier Software & Technology's 2016 Engineering Contest

BEAVERTON, Ore., Dec. 8, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Vernier Software & Technology is now accepting applications for its 2016 Engineering Contest that recognizes engineering, science, and STEM teachers for their creative use of Vernier sensors to teach students engineering concepts and practices. Three winning teachers — one middle school teacher, one high school teacher, and one college instructor — will each receive prizes valued at $5,500.

Applications for the contest are due by January 15, 2016, and winners will be announced on March 5, 2016 on the Vernier website and Facebook page. To enter, teachers must complete an online application form, as well as produce and submit a short video showcasing their engineering project involving Vernier sensors in action. The sensors may be used in conjunction with Vernier's Logger Pro software, NI LabVIEW software, Arduino, LEGO MINDSTORMS, VEX, or any other system incorporating Vernier sensors.

Applications will be judged by a panel of Vernier experts based on innovation, engineering objectives, and the ease by which others can replicate the project. Middle school and high school applicants will specifically need to explain how the project addresses the engineering practices called for in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

Each winner will receive $1,000 in cash, $3,000 in Vernier technology, and $1,500 toward expenses to attend the 2016 National Science Teachers' Association (NSTA) STEM conference or the 2016 American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) conference.

"Our annual Vernier Engineering Contest is one way we show our ongoing support for teachers as they foster the development of the next generation of engineers and scientists," said David Vernier, former physics teacher and co-founder of Vernier Software & Technology. "The contest provides a great opportunity for teachers to share their engineering best practices and win prizes and professional development opportunities to further enhance their teaching."

The winning projects from the 2015 Vernier Engineering Contest focused on developing a robot to test the internal temperature of a Hot Pocket, creating a light bulb from an ordinary staple, and designing a solar oven.

For complete information on the 2016 Vernier Engineering Contest and to submit an application, visit www.vernier.com/grants/engineering/.

About Vernier Software & Technology
Vernier Software & Technology has been a leading innovator of scientific data-collection technology for 35 years. Focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Vernier is dedicated to developing creative ways to teach and learn using hands-on science. Vernier creates easy-to-use and affordable science interfaces, sensors, and graphing/analysis software. With worldwide distribution to over 130 countries, Vernier data loggers are used by educators and students from elementary school to University. Vernier technology-based solutions enhance STEM education, increase learning, build students' critical thinking skills, and support the science and engineering practices detailed in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The Vernier business culture is grounded in Earth-friendly policies and practices, and the company provides a family-friendly workplace. For more information, visit http://www.vernier.com. 

SOURCE Vernier Software & Technology