"Nanotechnology Learning Modules Using Technology Assisted Science, Engineering and Mathematics"

Technology Assisted Science, Engineering and Mathematics (TASEM) focuses on innovative use of technology to explain new and complicated concepts rather than on education research.The explanation of nanotechnology is challenging because nano-dimensions require high-magnification electron microscopes to see them.Hand-on learning modules are difficult if not impossible.However, if macro/micro technologies and minirobots are used to explain nano concepts in a fun way, the formal and informal learners can be engaged.For example, learners get very excited when they use a bubble maker robot to study bubbles.As they watch the skin of soap bubbles changing their color a few times before they break, their excitement and fascination is evident from the level of interest seen in over 300 learners at K12, undergraduate and graduate levels during 2005-07.This paper reveals the use of Lego creations and programmable robots for nanotechnology education for the first time using the TASEM concept.The learning starts with watching videos explaining the concepts of size followed by hands-on activities that lead to nano learning.Using digital calipers and microscopes the hands-on activities focus on studying size variations of identical Lego pieces (quality control), leaves, flowers, samples of microchips, optical fibers, human hair, and spider silk.The impact of the learning modules reported in the present study seems very high because they explain (a) technologies that are in the market today as well as the technologies that are going to be in the market in the near term, (b) how these technologies are used to build complete systems or Microsystems, and (c) what technologies will be used to build Nanosystems.