Teaching nanoscience and nanotechnology in the training of environmental professionals: an experience in the higher education course in Environmental Management

Abstract

Nanoscience and nanotechnology are important contemporary tools for understanding and manipulating nature. In the environmental field, nanotechnology can be applied in the recovery and/or purification of water, air, and soil. This paper presents insights and reflections on a teaching intervention project aimed at introducing introductory concepts of nanoscience and nanotechnology to future environmental professionals. Based on an analysis of the context of the selected institution and its students, a lesson plan was developed. In addition, a classroom observation was carried out before the intervention. Fourteen students enrolled in the General Chemistry course during the first semester of the Higher Technological Program in Environmental Management participated in the activity. The results highlight the importance of expository and dialogic classes, as well as problem-solving activities in the classroom. They also emphasize the need to incorporate nanoscience and nanotechnology into the education of environmental professionals. Accordingly, a didactic methodology is proposed in which the teaching of these fields is integrated into Professional and Technological Education, particularly in Environmental Management courses, but also in other programs within the environmental field. Given the increasing prominence of nanoscience and nanotechnology in today’s global context, further research, projects, and educational materials are also recommended to explore this topic across other educational areas or thematic axes, beyond the training of environmental professionals.