Bringing Nanotechnology to the Community

1. Bringing Nanotechnology to the Community Dhiraj K. Sardar, University of Texas at san Antonio, DMR- 0934218 Educational outreach is an important component to our PREM program. Our focus has been to introduce under-represented groups to basic concepts in nanotechnology, engage them with hands-on experience with standard laboratory equipment, and encourage them to pursue an education focused on nanotechnology. Towards this goal, we hosted two more “Nano-Day @ UTSA” events for NVC students in Summer 2011 and with local high school students this Spring 2012. During the events, the students were given tours of our labs and microscope facilities and led in inquirey based learning activities involving modeling carbon nanotubes, exploring fluorescence and luminescence, and understanding the role of nanotechnology in society and how it may shape the future. As part of our partnership with Northwest Vista College (NVC), a series of monthly, open seminars on current topics in nanotechnology were given by UTSA PREM faculty and graduate students at the NVC campus. Feedback from these seminars has been very positive, with the audiences comprised of 73% Hispanic, 9% Black, and 9% Asian students. Survey from students involved in these activites has shown an increased interest in nanotechnology with most students expressing the desire to pursue an education in one of the sciences which utilize nanotechnology. Developing a new generation of students ready to tackle the challenges of nanotechnology Dr. Lucas Fernandez Seivane Mr. Hector Barron-Escobar Mr. ZurabKereselidze Mr. Gilberto Casillas-Garcia Mr. Brian Yust Dr. Kelly Nash Dr. Xochitl Lopez-Lozano Dr. Xomalin Peralta Dr. AnetaKoynova Dr. Ajith Kumar Clockwise from top left: Prof. Lopez-Lozano demonstrating CNT modeling, High school students during “NanoDay Jeopardy” event. Our third NanoDay @ UTSA group. Electron microscopy demonstration