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Nanoscience is Fun to Teach (2014.12.11)
- Date : 2015-03-23
- Views : 7622
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KIST Project Management Team
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Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST, President Lee Byung-gwon) hosted the Nanoscience (Nanomaterials) Education Program for science teachers in junior high & high schools. The program was held at KIST Hongrung Headquarters in Seoul for two days, and started on December 11.
Nanoscience Education Program was designed to improve science educators’ knowledge in nanoscience. The participants were educated in the nanoscience theory, and were given opportunities to handle high-tech nano analysis equipment. Also, the participants created a nanoscience teaching manual with the help of experts in the field.
Since 2011, KIST has operated Nano Truck, a vehicle that is filled with high tech nano equipment and travels to many parts of Korea to provide education on nanoscience. This program is a part of KIST public service.
President Lee Byung-gwon of KIST stated that “After meeting many science teachers, it became apparent that not only students but also educators needed further experience and education in nanoscience. This program commenced after educators from Gwangju, Suwon and Pohang sought KIST to provide them with programs that would improve their nanoscience teaching skills.” The main curriculum in the program focused on teaching real life application of nanoscience and technology. The theme of the first day curriculum was ‘the introduction to solar cell and nanotechnology,’ and lectures were given on the application of nanotechnology to the field of bio & medical diagnosis. During the lab tour, the participants had opportunities to have hands-on experience with nano-equipment and to engage in conversations with researchers.
On the second day, the theories of nanoscience and analysis technology, nanoscience and semiconductor technology were addressed. In addition, the participants learned about the 3D printing technology and the application of nanotechnology , and discussed the production of science education contents.
Won-jeong Chang, an educator from Nowon High School said ‘“I chose to take part in this program to improve my understanding of nanotechnology. Since I had very limited exposure to nanotechnology, it was difficult for me to teach students about the subject. I am confident that what I’ve learned through this program will be proven very useful at my school.” He also said “There should be more of these programs where science educators can receive education job training.
This program is a part of outreach project by KIST as a member of Korea Foundation for the Advancement of Science and Creativity, and is supported by Korea Advanced Nano Lab Center, National Institute for Nanomaterials Technology, and Nanotechnology Accumulation Center. The program is funded by government using the sale of lottery.