A modularized approach to nanotechnology education: Opportunities, challenges and requirements

The discipline of nanoscale science has evolved significantly over the last several decades. It has moved from equipment development and discovery at the molecular and atomic level to an increasing number of technology applications and product development. As the discipline has changed so has the approach to training students and employees in the nanoscience area. The educational process has evolved from high level, research based concepts to 2 year programs, nanoscience minors and individual courses. The approaches to nanotechnology education are constantly changing, however an approach that is appearing both in formal and informal venues is that of modularized nanotechnology content. This approach carries the ease of integration as an opportunity, the challenge of creating a complete module and requirements dependent upon location, topic and education level. A summary of these considerations is presented.