Materials science experiments as a tool for learning and applying high school mathematics

Abstract

We discuss a new educational approach for teaching Materials Science and Engineering (MSE). MSE can be introduced to high school students via classes of Mathematics. We describe how such students are introduced to MSE experiments by scientists from the Faculty of Technology of the University of Novi Sad. Subsequently, students share their experiences with their peers. Application of our approach accomplishes at least two objectives. First, students see Applied Mathematics via demonstrated connections between Mathematics and MSE. Second, MSE appears on their radar when they reach the stage of choosing their major at the college level and thus their future professions. This is important since most high school students do not get in contact with exhibitions of the Materials Research Society or with other MSE related activities of professional societies.