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- Title
Development of a Nanoscience Undergraduate Curriculum: Exploring the Societal and Ethical Implications.
- Authors
Fonseca, Daniel J.; McKinley III, Robert C.; Boykin, Karen; Houser, Rick; Nikles, David
- Abstract
Nanoscience education presents opportunities to further the growth and development of nanotechnology through creating student awareness and stimulating their interest in the subject matter. In order to increase awareness and interest in nanotechnology and its societal and ethical implications, especially in minority and underprivileged students, an introductory course in nano and bio technology was created at the University of Alabama consisting of instructional modules focused on the three pillars of sustainability: economical, environmental, and societal impact, with additional focus on nanotechnology itself from a scientific standpoint. Emphasis was placed on quality hands-on, technology based activities conducted in a classroom setting, as well as class discussions and trips to see first-hand applications and research techniques related to nanotechnology. The developed course was offered twice during the spring semesters of 2014 and 2015, first opened to only honors students and then offered to all students without restriction. To support class lectures, student learning was enhanced through in-class experiments, many of which were modified from original modules generated by UA's NSF support Math Science Partnership for Nano Bio Science. Learning was also supported through the use of field trips and guest speakers whose work involved nanotechnology. Skype was frequently used to communicate with guest speakers remotely. Virtual access was made available for special class sessions to remote participants. An integrated course curriculum with an authentic learning experience was established. A canned draft version of the course is now available for use and on-going conversations with other institutions such as Bevill State Community College, the University of West Alabama, and Alabama A&M University are taking place to explore the possibility for online offerings at those institutions.
- Subjects
NANOSCIENCE; NANOTECHNOLOGY study &; teaching; BIOTECHNOLOGY study &; teaching
- Publication
Journal of Management & Engineering Integration, 2017, Vol 10, Issue 2, p36
- ISSN
1939-7984
- Publication type
Article