K-12 and Informal Nanoscale Science and Engineering Education (NSEE) in the U.S.: Workshop Report

In October 2005, the National Science Foundation brought members of its nanoscale science and engineering education (NSEE) projects to Arlington, VA for a 2-day workshop to explore the status of on-going efforts and to forge collaborations at the national level that would facilitate future efforts. NSF currently funds NSEE projects through the Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education (ESIE), the Directorate for Engineering as part of the Nanoscale Science and Engineering Centers (NSEC), National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network (NNIN), the Network for Computational Nanotechnology (NCN), and the Division of Materials Research as part of the Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers (MRSEC). This report refers to projects developing instructional materials for inclusion in grades 7-12 science courses, providing professional development and research opportunities for secondary teachers, and engaging in multiple forms of outreach to schools and general audiences through exhibits, media presentations, and traveling programs. NSEE workshop participants included project leaders, scientists, instructional materials developers, museum designers, professional development providers and NSF program directors.