Appropriate level of Introducing Nanotechnology Education

Dr. Seemin Rubab

Senior Lecturer, Physics,

National Institute of Technology, Hazratbal, Srinagar

Jammu & Kashmir 190 006

FAX: 91-194-2420475

e-mail: ask_rubab@yahoo.co.in

Abstract

In this fast changing world, the dynamics of education has also changed. Knowledge and curricula especially of sciences and technology are becoming obsolete at a faster rate now. To keep the future open the students must be taught not only what to learn, but also how to learn. Many Indian universities have begun to offer nanotechnology courses and modules which are mostly designed for science and engineering students. Generally nanotechnology education involves a multidisciplinary natural science education with courses in nanotechnology, physics, chemistry, mathematics and molecular biology. Presently most Indian universities offer masters programme in nanotechnology. Some universities offer Master of Science in nanotechnology while others offer Master of Technology degree.  Very few universities have started graduate program in nanotechnology. Nanotechnology education is yet to reach schools. Pre university educational institutions cater to a wide variety of students with differing interests and levels of motivation. The scope of nanotechnology is so vast that relevant education must be imparted to virtually all students. The convergence of biotechnology, information technology, and nanotechnology is going to create significant social, legal, political and ethical issues. Little data exists on the health hazards of nanotechnology. These issues have to be addressed concurrently with techno-scientific developments. Successful education in nanotechnology at pre university level requires supplementation of current educational practices by a different instructional approach. Students may be encouraged to take projects on nanotechnology and other emerging technologies like information and biotechnology. They may be given an orientation on the many facets of these technologies by experts. Then they should be encouraged to gather information from various sources like text books, supplementary books, web and fields visits to nearby laboratories. The students may be asked to submit a journal of their activities and ideas after the end of the project.  Such kind of supplementation of current educational practices however, requires that the in-service teachers would have to be trained in new instructional approach. Curriculum in colleges of education shall have to be restructured and revised.

Keyword: nanotechnology, pre-university, curriculum, supplementation, instructional approach