Quantum structure of materials: a multi-faceted approach in teaching introductory solid state materials

Recent developments in undergraduate engineering education have resulted in curricular modifications that introduce lower division students to design and applications in an interdisciplinary context. Such restructuring creates a need for "capstone" courses in the engineering sciences for upper division students reflecting an inverted curriculum model. Such courses are best conducted in conjunction with modern experimental and computational technologies that reflect current and future applications. Such a formula coincides with ABET 2000 guidelines. The quantum mechanical concepts of physics are key elements to modern materials science and engineering. This paper describes a multi-institution project entitled Quantum Structure of Materials directed at developing new undergraduate course materials, state-of-the-art laboratory experiences, computer-based tutorials and computational exercises in the field of advanced solid state materials. The project also includes sharing experimental facilities among institutions, use of the Internet for new developments in the field and use of assessment instruments to guide course development. The members of the project team include faculty from Drexel University, University of Pennsylvania and The Cooper Union. The curricular structure of each institution has been maintained while educational materials and the collective experience of the investigators would be shared.