Balanced Depth and Breadth in a New Interdisciplinary Nanotechnology Course

Abstract

The field of nanotechnology has outgrown the discovery phase into the application and even commercial production phases. Consequently, the need for a workforce capable of supporting this growth is more than ever. However, because of the different challenges associated with nanotechnology education, specific courses are required to be developed and implemented in engineering schools to help produce this much needed workforce. This article describes the details of developing and implementing a course entitled Fundamentals of Nanotechnology as part of an umbrella plan for nanotechnology education and awareness at multiple levels. The course is designed to overcome most of the challenges facing nanotechnology education. As an example, one of the major challenges related to teaching this topic is the lack of equipment and facility, due to high cost, among other factors. Computer based activities are proposed and implemented to overcome this challenge. The course aims at providing a multidisciplinary pool of science and engineering students with the elements needed to continue and expand into the nanotechnology field, regardless of their discipline or focus. This course was developed and first implemented during the spring semester of 2010. Results from this offering were assessed to help close the quality loop and improve the next offering, the sequel project-based course, as well as the umbrella plan.