The properties of solids are diverse and fascinating. From superconductivity and magnetism to ultra-hard materials and catalysts, we see properties emerge in solids that are far more than the sum of the individual atomic building blocks. Solid state physics is the study of such emergent phenomena. The primary question is: "How does chemical structure and quantum mechanics come together to create these intriguing properties?" With this understanding, we can begin to ask "Can we use this understanding to embark on a path towards material design?"

The pedagogical goal of this site is to move student learning beyond the lecture. The heart of this approach are dialog-based screencasts which cover the first half of Kittel's Solid State Physics textbook. By moving content delivery outside of the lecture, space is created within the lecture for active learning activities. The efficacy of this approach is discussed here.