Re-inventing postgraduate level teaching and learning in nanoelectronics

In the world where technology changes almost daily, the field of microelectronics or nanoelectronics is becoming an area driving the future. Therefore, more engineers specializing in micro- and/or nanoelectronics are needed in industry internationally. Globally, a distinct shift in nanoelectronic education has already been observed, where postgraduate coursework and part-coursework degrees in microelectronics and nanoelectronics are now being offered alongside the traditional research or coursework degrees in electronics or electrical engineering (light currents). However, in South Africa the situation is lagging; microelectronic or nanoelectronic specializations are offered either as honors degrees or as the research-based studies mentioned, with no dedicated coursework specialization at the master's level. The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) has, therefore, diversified the program and qualifications mix because of this need to teach nanoelectronics at the master's level as well, via global part-coursework and a part-research method of delivery. However, approval for a new degree takes a number of years to be completed. Therefore, as an alternative route, nanoelectronic modules with some cross-disciplinary and multi-disciplinary modules are offered as continuing education programs (CEPs) at National Qualification Framework levels 8 and 9. The CEPs bear continuing Engineering Council of South Africa professional development credits, and can be credited as modules in the envisaged master's degrees. The CEPs are delivered via an online approach, which develops student accessibility and brings about flexibility for students who are studying part-time. Enhanced accessibility and the fast-growing level of internet access in Africa will allow the UJ to serve students both regionally and internationally. This paper explores the rationale for the chosen content of the CEPs and ultimately the proposed master's degrees and discusses in detail the online mode of delivery and its benefits, as well as the approach taken to deliver courses according to this model, together with innovative opportunities.