2008 Nanotechnology Workshop for
High School Science Teachers
As part of our outreach efforts to introduce nanotechnology into high school classrooms, our center conducted a one-day workshop for area high school science teachers on June 10, 2008. Thirty six teachers from high schools in and around central Ohio participated in this year's workshop, learned about nanotechnology (PowerPoint, PDF), observed and performed experiments, and received kits that contained materials for hands-on classroom activities. Experiments ranged in complexity from measuring a nanometer to advanced computer-based molecular modeling. The teachers also toured the Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center cleanroom facility at Nanotech West on Kinnear Road, and observed researchers at work on cutting edge nanotechnology projects. Afternoon activities included a fun cryogenics and phase change demonstration involving the preparation of liquid Nitrogen ice cream.
High school student volunteers explain how an
electrospinner produces nanofibers from polymeric materials
Superhydrophobicity and Superhydrophilicity (Nanograss)
Wellington School Chemistry teacher Aaron Frim demonstrates
the hydrophobic properties of nanograss
Measuring the Visible to Understand the Invisible
St. Charles Preparatory School Physics teacher Sarah Vandermeer (left) explains
physical property measurements, graphing, and data interpretation,
as a teacher/participant (right) pays close attention.
Introduction to Sun Protection
High school student volunteers explain how opacity
determines the effectiveness of sunscreens
Measuring the Large and the Small (Laser Pointer)
High school student volunteer demonstrates using the laser
to measure the width of a human hair
Molecular Modeling
Chemistry Department instructor, Rick Spinney, introduces
teachers to molecular modeling using Spartan software
Nanotech West Cleanroom
Teachers dress up in 'bunny suits' to observe
activities in the nanotechnology clean room
Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream
NSEC Director, Prof. L. James Lee (left) joins in the fun ice cream
activity that concluded the 2008 teacher workshop!