Lessons that non-scientists can teach us about the concept of energy: a human-centred approach

Abstract

Energy is not only a core concept in physics but also a majorissue in our post-Kyoto world. When using a constructivistapproach to teaching, we need to be aware of students'preconceptions. A palette of alternative frameworks, whichincludes those used by adults within the community, canfacilitate 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, technicaland cosmic dimensions. Although many participants wereuncomfortable with the terms `renewable' and `sustainable', theyclearly articulated the social and technical requirements for ashift away from current fossil fuel dependency. However, the lawof conservation of energy, a core belief of physicists, appearedto be totally absent from their concept of energy.