Real time nanostructure imaging for teaching nanoscience and nanotechnology

Our experiences in research on nanoscience and technology using various microscopies to observe materials synthesis reactions and to measure local (∼ 0.1-100 nm scale) structure and composition variations in solids provide some very useful examples to introduce students to important concepts of the field. The fundamental concept to illustrate is the nanometer length scale, of course, but other concepts such as mass and energy flows at the nanometer level and their effects on materials properties are at least as important, but more difficult to bring to students in a challenging but understandable way. We are using dynamic in situ or animated microscopy experiments in several material systems to teach these concepts. These experimental research results provide a useful basis for student computer modeling experiments, to give them direct participation in nanoscale materials research at an appropriate level. We are also exploring student group participation in live (interactive) electron microscopy experience via remote access into a suitably equipped computer visualization classroom.