“Things are used for their purpose, materials in the world construct our life; things are always explored for new, students in the class discuss the craftsmanship of nature.” This ethos guides the curriculum of “Materials and Era,” led by Teacher Cao Anyuan. Through this course, students immerse themselves in the rhythm of the times, discovering the inherent beauty of materials while exploring the evolution of materials technology and its profound impact on human society.Under the guidance of Teacher Cao, we embark on a historical journey through the development of materials technology. Across four chapters spanning Chinese civilization, the information age, sustainable development, and the exploration of the future, we discussedthe craftsmanship spirit in ceramic materials, biological and bionic materials in nature,newenergy and environmental materials for the dual carbon strategy, artificial intelligence and materials, aerospace materials heading for space, naturally beautiful carbon nanomaterials, invisibility cloaks,future super materials, and other topics closely related to our society and life. From the course, we canlearn about the application fields, cutting-edge progress, and innovative spirit ofadvancedmaterials and new technologies.

Experiment (making fullerenes)

Since the course started in 2022, it has drawn undergraduate students from diverse departments of Peking University, including the Health Science Center, College of Engineering, Colleges of Economics and Management, Schools of Humanities and Social Sciences, and others.Thecourseincorporates a variety of creativeteachingmethods such as novel reading, practice, magic performances, impromptupoetry game“Feihualing”and so on. This dynamic and interactive approach has sparked students’ curiosity and prompted deep reflections on the realm of materials science. In the final presentation, students produced exquisite material exhibitions and refreshing material short videos based on their own interests and creativity, leaving manysweetmemories.

Thefirstheavy snowfall of winter 2023 set the stage for the beloved poetry game “Feihualing” within the course.

FinalPresentation (materials presentation and short videos)

This course is more than just a class—it's an academic adventure full of creativity and exploration. Welcome to “Materials and Era,” where we'll uncover the mysteries of materials together. Join us on this delightful academic journey, and let’s discover the infinite wonders of materials together!