About NSEE

According to the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI), nanotechnology is a multidisciplinary field of discovery. Scientists working in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, information technology, metrology, and other fields are contributing to today's research breakthroughs.

• The worldwide workforce necessary to support the field of nanotechnology is estimated at 2 million by 2015. How does the U.S. educational system train these workers and how do students choose the appropriate educational path for their interests?
• As in other fields, a passion for science is developed while students are young and an introduction to the many facets of nanotechnology will provide the basis for future educational opportunities.
• Curricula development is beginning and is available for K-12 and undergraduate education. Right now, however, only few degree programs in the field are available nationwide (and worldwide).

The agenda for addressing this workforce and education challenge is to establish a strong collective approach for developing standards, curriculum and outreach in Nanoscale Science and Engineering Education (NSEE). NSEE is one of the key educational agendas unifying scientists and educators, within interdisciplinary working relationships, to establish key "Big Ideas" in nanoscience and to contextualize these nanoconcepts for the classroom and general public. The ultimate aim is to create a nano-literate workforce and society that will remain competitive in 21^st Century.