Nanotech Grant to Educate Public

By Ben Steckler
Campus Editor

A grant has Purdue attempting to teach the public about the small science of nanotechnology.The grant, which totals $280,000, is part of a $20 million National Science Foundation project, titled Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network.Purdue's Envision Center for Data Perceptualization, the College of Agriculture's Department of Youth Development and Agriculture Education and the Cooperative Extension Service, will work on the project which will develop innovative ways to present scientific information that can be presented at museums and other public places. Krishna Madhavan, a research scientist at the Envision Center and principle investigator for Purdue's grant, said Purdue and the Envision Center allow for creative ways to illustrate the concepts of nanotechnology. "We have a great strength in this area," Madhavan said. "We're recognized as a national leader in visualization and perceptualization." Many consider nanotechnology the future of many industries, and Madhavan said it's important for people to understand the science. "It is very critical because nanotechnology is beginning to touch our lives in many ways," Madhavan said. "It's touching our lives in more ways than we can imagine." Purdue Extension specialist Aadron Rausch said the education must begin before people enter college. "The youth of today are the nanotechnology workers of tomorrow," Rausch said. "Beginning science education in college is too late, we need to start early to interest and prepare students in science-related careers such as nanotechnology."

College of Agriculture Leadership Development Certificate Program

If you are looking for a new way to gain valuable leadership skills and meet new people, the College of Agriculture Leadership Development Certificate Program is for you. This program allows students to gain leadership skills through personal assessment, team experiences, leadership workshops and community service experience.
Students need to attend one of three call-outs in order to be considered for the program. The student will then select a qualified coach from a list in AGAD 121. All students will complete a personal assessment and a personal development plan.
The students will take on extra teamwork activities outside the classroom. They will record their experiences and growth in a portfolio. Students will add to their leadership portfolio throughout the duration of the program.
Next, students will take part in an off-campus community group experience. For example, students will take part in civic organizations, missions, employment, international involvements or other activities.
Students will also take part in leadership programs and workshops sponsored by the College of Agriculture. Taking two college courses that will enhance the student’s leadership skills is the last step.
The end product is a portfolio, personal growth and valuable leadership skills. Students will look at their assessment and development. For requirements and additional information, visit the College of Agriculture Leadership Development Certificate Program website at www.ydae.purdue.edu/LDCP/