A 0503: Quantum Computing Fundamentals: From Qubits to Quantum Algorithms
5 Days (Daily: 5–6 hours, including lectures, discussions, and hands-on labs),
Target Audience:
High school students (age 15+) and college freshmen with interest in STEM; no prior quantum background required.
Day 1: Introduction to the Quantum World
Theme: Classical vs Quantum – Understanding the shift
Session 1: What is Quantum Computing?
History and motivation
Why classical computers fall short
Where quantum computing shines
Session 2: Basic Concepts of Quantum Physics
Superposition
Entanglement
Measurement and probability
Hands-on Lab:
Simulating superposition using IBM’s Quantum Composer
Basic single-qubit gates: X, H, Z
Activity:
Quantum trivia game and interactive concept mapping
Day 2: Qubits, Gates, and Circuits
Theme: The building blocks of quantum computing
Session 1: Qubits Explained
Quantum states |0⟩, |1⟩ and superposition
Bloch Sphere visualization
Session 2: Quantum Gates and Circuits
Single- and multi-qubit gates (X, H, Z, CX, etc.)
Quantum circuits and computation logic
Hands-on Lab:
Build your first quantum circuit on IBM Quantum
Explore how gates affect qubit states
Challenge Activity:
Qubit Puzzle Challenge – Use gates to reach desired qubit states
Day 3: Entanglement, Measurement & Quantum Logic
Theme: The "weird" and powerful parts of quantum computing
Session 1: Entanglement Deep Dive
Bell states
EPR paradox and quantum teleportation basics
Session 2: Measurement and Quantum Interference
How observing affects outcomes
Quantum logic vs classical logic
Hands-on Lab:
Create entangled states using CX gate
Simulate quantum measurement probabilities
Group Activity:
Debate: "Is the quantum world real or just math?"
Day 4: Quantum Algorithms & Real Applications
Theme: Harnessing quantum for real-world power
Session 1: Famous Quantum Algorithms
Deutsch-Jozsa Algorithm (concept and simulation)
Grover’s Algorithm (search faster than classical!)
Shor’s Algorithm (intro level)
Session 2: Quantum Computing in the Real World
Cryptography
Chemistry and materials science
AI and machine learning applications
Hands-on Lab:
Simulate Grover’s Algorithm
Identify potential use cases in teams
Mini Hackathon:
Teams design a simple quantum algorithm to solve a real-world problem
Day 5: Quantum Careers & Capstone Projects
Theme: The future is quantum – and you're part of it
Session 1: Quantum Career Pathways
Roles in quantum research, engineering, and software
Top universities and companies (IBM, Google, D-Wave, IonQ)
Session 2: Capstone Project Presentations
Student teams present their mini projects using IBM Q or Qiskit
Panel / Guest Speaker:
Quantum scientist or industry expert shares their journey
Closing Ceremony:
Certification of Completion
Student reflections and feedback
Award for best quantum project
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will:
Understand core quantum mechanics concepts applied to computing
Build and analyze quantum circuits
Explore real quantum algorithms
Gain hands-on experience using quantum simulators (IBM Q, Qiskit)
Be inspired to pursue further studies or a career in quantum tech