INTRODUCTION TO EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

The phrases ‘emerging technologies’ and ‘augmented age’ imply change—change that is already taking place and will take place in the near future and beyond—change that, and in no uncertain terms, is expected to impact your lives, your future and your children’s lives. The emerging technologies are nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology, cognitive sciences (and robotics)—or NBIC(R). The goal of this course is to provide insights and some level of expertise in the emerging technologies and present and discuss the relationships of NBIC(R) to the humanities, the arts and society in general.

Although the course is multifaceted, it is primarily focused on nanotechnology and biotechnology. The treatment of these topics is rigorous and is an extension of coursework already accomplished in the Master’s Degree and undergraduate degree Progammes. Nanotechnology is an extension of physics and chemistry as well as of biology. Concomitantly, some level to a good level of biotechnology, information technology and the cognitive sciences knowledge is important today to the chemist and physicist—driven by the force of multidisciplinarity. The goal of this course is to supplement the Master’s Degree program with new insights based on convergent thinking.

This course is expected to present a unique experience to students. Potential outcomes are listed below

Expected tangible outcomes:

• (N) Expert level understanding of nanotechnology
• (B) Good level of understanding of biotechnology
• (I) Familiarization with simulation tools of information technology
• (C) Understanding importance of the cognitive sciences
• (R) Have speculative knowledge of robotics and its future
• Appreciation of art and design in scientific endeavors
• Acquisition of feelings for the societal impacts of your work

Intangible Outcomes:

• Have a well-grounded foundation for convergent thinking
• Stimulation of personal discovery and introspection
• On the path to becoming a global citizen
• The student as a better prepared individual to do R&D in the Augmented Age

Strong backgrounds in physics and chemistry are recommended. The lecture materials are infused with a broad range of mathematics. There are many examples of “good for the mind” mathematics as well as “bottom-up” derivations. Note, this is an interdisciplinary course. Any experience in biological fields, simulation and even robotics can only help in understanding materials presented. It is highly recommended that students participate in this class by asking questions and providing discussions.

Nanotechnology
Continua and Interfaces
‘Living on the Curve’
Structure, Crystallography and Magic Numbers
Intermolecular Bonding and Self-Assembly
Synthesis and Modification
Surface Energy
Nanothermodynamics
Solid State Physics of 0D, 1D and 2D Materials
Electromagnetics
Characterization of Nanomaterials

Biotechnology
Continua and Interfaces
Examples of Natural Nano-Phenomena
The Sizes of Living Things
Introduction to Bio-Nanomaterials
Advanced Surfaces
Biomimetics
Nanomedicine
Biosensors

Philosophy, Humanities and Society
Philosophy of Science
Art and Science
History of Science Education
Societal Implications of NBIC(R)
Art and Design in Science Today

Extracurricular Projects

• Art/Design that relates to your experience in any of the emerging
technologies in any medium (including electronic)
• Design a chem/phys/or bio innovative/ practical laboratory
• Innovate a product, process, educational program, or social program related
to NBIC
• The above can be accomplished as a team
• Student presentations and reports

I will be providing research papers and study materials throughout the course.

There are many excellent textbooks.

G.L. Hornyak, et al., Introduction to Nanoscience, CRC Press (2008)

20% Homework assignments
20% Student Presentations
20% Midterm examination (written)
20% Final examination (written)
20% Class participation

Face to face lessons, team group work and students presentation.

English

written and oral