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Knowing Nano: New Video, Web, and Print |
This Web Seminar, developed in collaboration with the National Science Digital Library,
took place on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time.
Dr. Lisa Regalla,
Science Editor for DragonflyTV provided participants with a greater understanding
of nanoscale science by giving a brief history of how our understanding of nanotechnology
has rapidly grown over time. Dr. Regalla cited several examples of nano-level phenomena
found in nature that scientists have studied. These phenomena help us to understand
the structure of matter on a very minute scale and gives scientists and engineers
opportunities to design nanoscale materials as a result. Stronger tennis racquets
made from nanotube fibers, nano cleaning agents for water, and odor-absorbing socks
made with nanosilver are all examples of how nanotechnology is being used in our
everyday consumer products.
DragonflyTV has created six video episodes that can be found on their website that help teachers and students understand the big ideas around nanoscience. Dr. Regalla featured aspects highlighted in these videos such as surface area, self-assembly, and acting forces at the nanoscale level as well as activities for students to demonstrate these concepts that nanoscience teach us about science in general. As an emerging science, societal issues and health concerns are also an important aspect of understanding nanotechnology. In order to discuss these issues meaningfully, a working knowledge of nanoscience is important as nanotechnology becomes an increasingly pervading aspect of our lives.
Fifty-two (52) participants were present at the live Web Seminar in addition to the presenters, the NSDL moderator, and the NSTA staff. Educators represented the states of California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey,
New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Tennessee,
Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. In addition, four participants joined from countries outside the United States: Columbia, Lebanon, Romania, and Puerto Rico.
Seminar participants received one of the NSTA SciGuides. A certificate of attendance was deposited into participants My PD Record and Certificates area in the NSTA Learning Center for completing the evaluation form at the end of the program.
Here are some comments provided by the participants at the end of the Web Seminar:
- “The resources are very valuable for me and to share with others.”
- “All new content for me.”
- “Good resources presented for teaching nano.”
- “I have taught some nanotech in a contemporary issues class and it was nice to see the resources available to teachers.”
Thanks to the participants and the presenters for the learning opportunity, the interactions, and a job well done!
Websites
See when other NSDL/NSTA Web Seminars are scheduled.
For more information contact webseminars@nsta.org
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Underwritten by NSDL |