This paper describes the funding sources, educational outcomes, and diversity of students served by conducting research on appropriate and sustainable technology. Since 2001, more than twelve undergraduate students have conducted research on the water treatment effectiveness of the Filtrón, including eight students independently and four students as a class team project. The Filtrón is a point-of-use drinking water filter that can be produced inexpensively in communities world-wide. Some of the

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... student researchers were participants in the Environmental Engineering Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site and Summer Multicultural Access to Research and Training (SMART) program. Students have also been funded through the Discovery Learning (DL) Apprentice Program, Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), and the Engineering Excellence Fund (EEF). Students have also earned three credits of Independent Study that they applied as a technical elective toward their B.S. degree. The undergraduate student researchers majored in civil, chemical, environmental, or mechanical engineering, and have included four underrepresented minorities and seven women. Research is currently continuing with a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) P3 program. The Filtrón research also has been used as a demonstration in numerous outreach activities. The filter has been evaluated in service-learning projects through Engineers Without Borders (EWB-CU) and capstone design to provide safe water. Laboratory research on the Filtrón is also contrasted with opportunities to earn course credit for involvement with EWB projects. This serves as an example of how research on appropriate technology appeals to a diverse range of students and can provide real benefits to developing communities.