Modularizing Emerging Technology Education: Two Case Studies

The rapid change in technology poses a challenge to the public, industry, educators and students. Formulation and creation of emerging concept content such as that associated with lean or advanced manufacturing, robotics, photonics, nanotechnology and biotechnology, in a modularized format enables the integration of new content into existing curricula. A modular or layered approach to content and its dissemination is based on surveys of over 300 high school and college science educators. These surveys queried educators with regard to desired characteristics of emerging technology content such as technical area, depth, supporting material etc. The survey results were used to create the module content and characteristics that would make integration of emerging content easier for educators. A modular approach can also be used to emphasize the same foundational math and science knowledge and skills in different courses in an applied technology context. This approach reinforces basic skills in a meaningful way. Many types of modules (content, length, cost etc.) can be used at the secondary and postsecondary level with few changes. There are also a large number of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) courses at both levels that are appropriate for integration of modularized emerging technology content and/or STEM applications of technologies. Therefore, it can be challenging to find the best course or courses and the best sequence of topics to achieve maximum impact on student learning. One emerging technology (nanotechnology) curriculum modularization effort has reached over 6,000 students in secondary and postsecondary institutions. The design, development and implementation of various modular curricula in different courses and institutions is discussed. This paper covers the initial implementation activities and the first cut of the results of these efforts. This information is applicable to educators and/or institutions which desire to disseminate emerging technology information or content. The positive results being received for the modular content and approach warrants and will receive additional research and analysis.