Highlights
The Geckoman! Story – Creating a Better Learning Experience for a Wider Audience
NSF Grant Number: EEC-0425826
PI(s): J. Isaacs, C, Barry, J. Laird, Lisa Regalla, and A. Busnaina
Institutions: Metaversal Studios, Northeastern University, University of Massachusetts Lowell, and the Museum of Science Boston
The NSF Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center for High-rate Nanomanufacturing (CHN) created Geckoman!, a nanotechnology video game based on learning about nanoscale forces. In Geckoman!, a laboratory accident has shrunk Harold Biggums to the nanoscale and flung him to the ceiling. His lab partner, the demure, blond Nancy, is trying to help him develop a device to reverse the shrinking effects, but in order to do so, she needs Harold (now transformed into Geckoman) to collect missing nanoparticles.
A Very Collaborative Relationship: CHN and the Museum of Science, Boston
NSF Grant Number: EEC-0425826
PI(s): L. Regalla and C. L. Alpert
Institutions: Museum of Science Boston
The Museum of Science, Boston, (MOS) develops innovative science communication strategies for enhancing public understanding of research in nanoscale science and engineering, engaging a broad range of audiences at the Museum of Science and elsewhere. Activities developed for the NSF NSEC – the Center for High-rate Nanomanufacturing (CHN) included live presentations, cable casts, podcasts, and an experiment with YouTube. The MOS collaboration has also assisted with a teacher conference and provided REU participants with training in communicating with the general public.
1st Annual Nanotechnology, Literature and Society Conference at UML
NSF Grant Number: EEC-0425826
PI(s): T. Avery and C. Barry
Institutions: University of Massachusetts Lowell
A mild-mannered English professor (Todd Avery, University of Massachusetts Lowell) created a small nanotechnology module for the English literature course, Apes, Monsters, and Nightmares. This module rapidly expanded to cover half the semester and created a spin-off undergraduate course, Nanoscience and Literature. When the courses were not sufficient, the professor organized a first-of-its-kind conference, Nanotechnology, Literature, and Society.