Thanks to one of our readers, I was informed of the Department of Energy's Energy Literacy program and their webinar on Feb. 6 on the Energy Literacy framework.
You can go ahead and download the Energy Literacy guide from the website that is a great primer on the basics of energy. From the DOE site on the purpose of the Energy Literacy guide:
"The Energy Literacy document is the culmination of public listening sessions and thousands of experts contributing to a dialogue about what an energy literate person should know and understand. Energy Literacy looks at energy through the lens of natural science as well as social science. Energy issues require an understanding of civics, history, economics, sociology, psychology, and politics in addition to science, technology, engineering and mathematics. A comprehensive study of energy and curriculum designed using Energy Literacy should be interdisciplinary and use a systems-based approach to fully appreciate the complexities of energy issues.
The intended audience for the Energy Literacy document is anyone involved in energy education. Intended use of the document as a guide includes, but is not limited to, formal and informal energy education, standards development, curriculum design, assessment development, and educator trainings."
The guide is built around 7 essential principles and fundamental concepts which are (with a related Mapawatt link):
- Energy is a physical quantity that follows the precise natural laws. Mapawatt Link: Why free energy devices don't work.
- Physical processes on Earth are the result of energy flows through the Earth system. Mapawatt Link: Energy Flows.
- Biological processes depend on energy flow through the Earth system. Mapawatt Link: Stop Global Warming Madness!
- Various sources of energy can be used to power human activities, and often this energy must be transferred from source to destination. Mapawatt Link: Where does U.S. electricity come from?
- Energy decisions are influenced by economic, political, environmental, and social factors. Mapawatt Link: The truth about gasoline prices and why politicians are liars.
- The amount of energy used by human society depends on many factors. Mapawatt Link: Where does my home energy go?
- The quality of life of individuals and societies is affected by energy choices. Mapawatt Link: What is the Value of Sustainable Living?
Of course, don't forget the most fundamental concept in residential energy consumption: What is a kWh?
Check out the guide and let us know your thoughts!
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