Undergraduate instruction in nanoscience and nanotechnology

Two methods are described for providing undergraduates with learning opportunities in nanoscience and nanotechnology: (i) new courses or course modules devoted to these topics, and (ii) seamless integration into existing introductory physics courses. A nanoscience minor for physics, engineering, and other science majors at Ball State University features a physics course on nanoscience and nanotechnology and supporting courses. The nanoscience course content, instructional materials and activities, and the initial experience in teaching the course are described. Course assignments using simulation and computational tools on the Purdue NanoHub are highlighted. In existing introductory physics courses, nanoscience and nanotechnology are introduced within the context of traditional course topics through pedagogical tools with nanoscience surface features. Based on modern research results, we develop questions, exercises, and problems on elementary physics topics, for example, on the mechanics of carbon nanotubes for student learning of Hooke's law and simple harmonic motion and on volumetric expansion using gallium-filled carbon nanotube thermometers.