Energy and You: Renewable Resources and Innovative Solutions
Developed and produced for San Diego County Office of Education, this high school curriculum project consists of five short videos by John Feldman and a teacher's guide by Rodger Bybee. Each video is designed to fit into a specific part of a one or two period lesson. As a group, the videos present a broad picture of the energy landscape while explaining -- through the words of scientists, engineers, public figures, teachers, and students -- the current energy infrastructure and prospects for a new energy economy. The DVD is purposefully optimistic and presents a range of solutions for consideration by students.
Video 1: The Energy Crisis.
This video begins by aligning the energy crisis with the classic story of the tragedy of the commons. It introduces the concept of “common property resources.” Then it explains two significant aspects of the crisis: global warming and the Earth’s rapidly dwindling fossil fuel supplies. The video includes interviews with scientists and engineers who highlight the need for alternative cars, new ways to generate electricity and new ways of thinking about our use of energy.
Video 2: Alternative Cars and Fuels.
This video explains each of the following alternative cars and fuels, while outlining the pros and cons of each. Explanations center on:
- Alternative Cars and Fuels (overview)
- Hybrid Cars
- Plug-in Hybrids
- Electric Cars
- Biofuels
- Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars
Video 3: Renewable Energy
This video surveys different methods of generating alternative electricity and introduces the electric grid. Explanations address the following:
- Renewable Energy (overview)
- Wind Energy
- Hydroelectric Power
- Energy from Water Currents
- Wave Energy
- Geothermal Energy
- Solar Thermal Energy
- Biomass
- Nuclear Energy
- Solar Photo Voltaic
- The Electric Grid
Video 4: Energy Efficiency.
This video reviews the idea that each form of renewable energy has its limitations and that the electricity infrastructure of the future will include a mix of renewable and non-renewable resources. The video looks at the current contribution the renewables are making to our overall use of energy. Also, the video looks at the current inefficiencies in our energy use and the range of ways to improve this efficiency.
Video 5: Solutions
This video presents some contemporary individuals and businesses that are becoming part of the solution to the energy crisis. It highlights the significant opportunities that are becoming available in the “green” job market so that we can all become part of the solution. Industry leaders encourage high school students to think about green jobs in a range of new—and old—industries.