Strategy and Policy Issues Related to Nanotechnology Innovations in Medical Education

Abstract

Nanotechnology, the science of building devices at the molecular and atomic levels, is finding applications in many fields. From computing to communication and to drug delivery, it continues to provide a new dimension on what science can deliver to the society. In this chapter, the author examines the strategy and policy issues affecting innovations in nanotechnology with specific focus on medical education. The field of nanotechnology is broad and encompasses a variety of disciplines, including the physical sciences, engineering, and biomedicine; consequently, an educational system that focuses on any single discipline will not provide adequate training. So, creating an environment in which students can obtain an interdisciplinary education is necessary. That will shape their perspectives as well as position them to creatively use the potentials of the technology to advance science and human society.