Pop culture: a soap bubble-based framework for nanoeducation outreach

• Autores: Christopher Moraes
• Localización: The International journal of engineering education, ISSN-e 0949-149X, Vol. 28, no. Extra 5, 2012, págs. 1088-1094
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • Lecture demonstrations can be a significant aid to learning, when coupled with appropriate teaching methods and conceptualknowledge. However, in-class experimental demonstrations of core concepts in nanotechnology, such as self-assembly of molecularsystems, is exceptionally challenging under poorly controlled classroom conditions. In this work, I demonstrate the use of soapbubbles as easily visualized, accessible and relatively robust examples of molecular systems, that are already familiar to students,yet can be used to illustrate complex principles of self-assembly. Utilizing dynamic soap bubble sculptures, this work illustrates asimplified framework within which to teach molecular self-assembly in nanoeducation outreach programs at the secondary schoollevel. Student learning and interest in nanoscience was assessed via an ad hoc survey to determine the suitability and effectivenessof soap bubbles as learning tools for this target audience. The results demonstrate that even academically strong students at thesecondary level had largely not considered the link between molecules and soap bubbles, but described a high level of intrinsicinterest in the subject material. Self-assessed levels of concept comprehension were high, and students described an increasedinterest in pursuing studies in the physical sciences and specifically within nanotechnology.