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Problem Solving Like
An Expert (PSLAE) 2026
Audience: San Diego High School Teachers
July 13–17, 2026
Mon.–Fri.,
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
In-Person at UC San Diego
$1,500 Stipend and
4 CEUs
Problem-solving skills are the #1 attribute employers seek according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Recognized by the San Diego County Engineering Council (SDCEC) with the 2026 Best Outreach Program award, Problem Solving Like an Expert is UC San Diego's award-winning professional development program designed to bridge the gap between formal education and practice in technical and engineering fields.
About the Program
PSLAE Curriculums combine industry-tested problem-solving strategies with Next Generation Science and Engineering Standards into rich, project-based units. The modular curriculum consists of 13 modules and accompanying hands-on projects catered to high school students. Students work together to model and address real-world problems. Teachers receive a full year of lessons and teaching materials that can be modified to fit their classroom and teaching style. Project consumables are also provided.
The PSLAE pedagogical framework uses meta-cognitive strategies that enable students to self-assess and track their progress over time. Students are trained to reflect and identify areas of improvement — skills that transfer across all their courses.
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About the ProDev Training
A comprehensive 1-week paid training hosted at UC San Diego Envision Studios. The training covers all curriculum material, lesson plans, projects, and how to modify everything to fit your classroom needs. Chemistry, physics, and biology educators are especially encouraged to apply — as are all teachers interested in integrating problem-solving instruction into their courses.
Post-program, participants join an active community of practice of returning teachers from previous cohorts to support their implementation of the curriculum in their classroom. Extended professional development opportunities will be offered to teachers interested in continued growth.
Program Benifits
✔ Professional Development
✔ Expand Pedagogical Knowledge
✔ Paid Opportunity
✔ Active Community of Practice
✔ Teaching Support
✔ 4 CEUs