Workshop on Energy Resources and Electric Power Generation for High School Science Teachers. Final Report

摘要

Workshop participants spent 15 days studying various aspects of the national energy problem and preparing instructional materials for use in their classrooms. Attention was given to short- and long-term resources available; to conversion systems; to economic, social and philosophical problems associated with energy production and use; and the importance of conservation. The conversion steps involved in transforming uranium ore into electric power were examined through lectures, A-V aids, and extensive discussions. Coal-fueled systems were studied in similar fashion but enriched by visits to strip-mining operations and a large electric-generating plant. The first five days spent at The Ohio State University's Stone Laboratory on Lake Erie focused on nuclear energy systems, wind power testing at the NASA Center at Plum Brook, and the economics of power production. The second and third weeks at Muskingum College in Ohio's coal fields concentrated on fossil-fueled energy systems, alternative energy sources, conservation of energy, and preparing teaching materials geared to grade level and subject-matter assignment. Teacher evaluations of the workshop were very positive. They judged the length of time to be appropriate, appreciated greatly the amount of energy materials distributed for their study and future use, and gave high marks to the regular staff and visiting speakers who worked with them. All teachers left the workshop committed philosophically, and with teaching materials in hand, to include more energy education in their classrooms. (ERA citation 04:030719)