Material Detail

This is a collection of over two dozen interactive Excel Spreadsheets (aka - simulations) or Excelets for discovery learning in introductory materials science or to add a materials science component to other courses. The Excelets range from manipulating a multivariable equation, animating a concept, or managing a small database to explore concepts by bringing the mathematics alive to enhance the dynamic nature of concepts. Excelets promote an engaging pedagogy via predict, test, and analyze in the classroom. Topics covered include the crystal structure of metals, the vibrations in solids, bonding, band gaps, x-rays in crystalline solids, exploring the periodic table to compare metals and non-metals, thermal expansion, and carbon nanotubes. Guided-inquiry activities are included with some of the spreadsheets. A link to a "How to" guide for developing Excelets is provided. This work is supported by the Howard/Hopkins/PGCC Partnership for Research and Education in Materials (PREM), which is funded by NSF Grant No. DMR-0611595.