New approach to studying materials
Research and science related to novel materials show great promise in advancing technology in a plethora of ways. The EU-funded project 'University-school partnerships for the design and implementation of research-based ICT-enhanced modules on material properties' (Materialsscience) developed new teaching materials to support the field. The new approach looked at bridging research findings and technological products, focusing on research-based design and participative design of teaching materials. In other words, the approach featured active student engagement, collaborative learning and inquiry-based science, concepts that increasingly encourage students to appreciate the topic. This was achieved through modules that were based on education facilitated through advanced information and communications technology (ICT). The project produced a definitive set of guidelines and framework to design and develop teaching material that features key information culminating from years of scientific research in educational sciences. In effect, the approach involves students who perform their own investigations to build knowledge and hone reasoning skills. Moreover, the project produced a handbook for developing teaching modules in science and technology (S&T) education and aimed to publish it. Another important accomplishment involved developing and updating the Materialsscience website, complete with useful material to download and mechanisms that enable networking opportunities. Through these tools the project helped upgrade education in materials science and brought this field much closer to the students in interactive ways. Initiatives such as this will ultimately help more students embark on science-related careers and contribute to the knowledge economy and industry of Europe.
