Instruction in materials science and engineering: modern technology and the new role of the teacher

Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) has been created by combining disciplines that are several thousands years old (Metallurgical Engineering) with quite recent ones (Solid State Physics). It includes atomic and molecular interactions and structures, synthetic chemistry, phase equilibria and phase diagrams, a variety of characterization methods, mechanical testing and fracture mechanics, visco-elasticity, rheology, materials processing from forging through sintering to injection molding, as well as prepreg making and composite manufacturing. ent sub-disciplines of MSE often require different instructional approaches. Teaching a single basic MSE course requires a combination of approaches. Fortunately, we have an increasing number of instructional tools: computer modeling (watching a known process); computer simulations (learning about an insufficiently understood process); interactive computer programs; TV broadcasting of lectures followed by discussions by phone, both video-recorded; the world wide web information accessible via search engines; the Journal of Materials Education; and traditional textbooks and class lecture notes. Moreover, MSE also exhibits certain unifying features (not limited to just, say, metals or semiconductors); these features are also discussed. The most important consequence of the existence of new technologies is the change in the role of the instructor. Instead of mostly dispensing knowledge, the instructor now has to make decisions. Particularly important in the new role of the teacher is his/her capability to make the student manage his/her time in a much more efficient way.