ERIC Number: EJ775760
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2003-Mar
Pages: 5
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0031-9120
EISSN: N/A
Lessons that Non-Scientists Can Teach Us about the Concept of Energy: A Human-Centred Approach
Leggett, Monica
Physics Education, v38 n2 p130-134 Mar 2003
Energy is not only a core concept in physics but also a major issue in our post-Kyoto world. When using a constructivist approach to teaching, we need to be aware of students' preconceptions. A palette of alternative frameworks, which includes those used by adults within the community, can facilitate this. An exploration of energy issues with non-scientists within the community has generated some relevant insights. Participants' concepts of energy were multifaceted. Most had a strong personal component, but also social, technical and cosmic dimensions. Although many participants were uncomfortable with the terms "renewable" and "sustainable", they clearly articulated the social and technical requirements for a shift away from current fossil fuel dependency. However, the law of conservation of energy, a core belief of physicists, appeared to be totally absent from their concept of energy.
Descriptors: Teaching Methods, Student Attitudes, Fuels, Energy, Environmental Education, Scientific Concepts, Science and Society, Lay People
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A