Computer Animation:Nanotechnology for K-12

Michael Melloch, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Ron Reifenberger, Physics

picture of two animated child characters The project goal was to develop animations to teach nanotechnology concepts to K-12 students.

Instructional goals

Use animation to more fully engage young students in learning about nanotechnology
Create more conversation in the classroom

Project Rationale

The LEGO Scanning Probe Microscope (LSPM) is an Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS) endeavor at Purdue University. The goal of this project is to educate children in the middle through high school age range about nanotechnology using a larger than life model of a Scanning Probe Microscope built using LEGOs. Drs. Reifenberger and Melloch and the EPICS team were dissatisfied with the learning outcomes when they used posters and pamphlets to educate their audience; they found that the material on nanotechnology is better conveyed to a young audience through a conversation that includes more detailed explanations. Therefore, they chose computer animation as a flexible medium and a great enhancement to the LSPM project to educate children about nanotechnology.

Implementation

In collaboration with the EPICS team, Drs. Melloch and Reifenberger supplied the IDC team with the content and storyboards for the animations. The IDC team developed the cartoon characters and other images to bring the nanotechnology tutorials to life. Specifically, they created two animated child characters who give the viewer a guided tour of the Nanotechnology Exhibit at the Oak Ridge Children’s Museum. The children provide explanations of topics that the viewer chooses on the screen, such as a definition of a nanometer or a description of how a scanning probe microscope works. As the children speak, other animations provide visuals that help the viewer understand the concepts. The animation ends with a debate between the two children, entitled “Molecular Manufacturing: Reality or Fantasy?”

This project is supported by NASA and NSF awards.

Technologies Used

The animations were created using Macromedia Flash, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop.

Impact on Student Learning

Nanotechnology is a new field with significant innovations taking place at a swift pace. Many interesting concepts may easily be taught to a young audience, although they need to be conveyed in the right style. Breaking down scientific concepts into easily understandable ideas is only the first step. The animation medium allows for rapid deployment of these ideas into educational material, which helps the target audience, middle school children, grasp concepts about nanotechnology quickly.

The project was displayed at the Oak Ridge Children's Museum, Oak Ridge, TN from April 1 through May 31, 2005. New venues are currently being sought. The animations are expected to effectively bridge the communication gap between the project and its audience.

IDC Staff Contact: David Eisert