A Study of Engineering Freshmen Regarding Nanotechnology Understanding

Abstract

This study was conducted under the grand scheme of nanotechnology education and was focused on examining the nanotechnology readiness of first-year engineering students. The study found that most students learned the term ‘nano’ from popular science magazines or as a measurement unit; less than 5% of the students learned ‘nano’ through nanotechnology education. The study also showed the students’ obvious optimism on nanotechnology but lack of deep understanding and commitment to ‘nano’. Among the students studied, female students were more enthusiastic in learning and participating in nanotechnology, but they were more likely to accept false nano-knowledge. The study showed that there is a clear need to understand the students’ personal views on many nanotechnology issues before technical issues can be properly addressed.