Making the Physics of Energy and Climate Accessible to All (Journal Article)

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Abstract: Energy and the environment are topics that concern society. These topics inform conversations in areas such as politics, public health, natural resources, and business. An understanding of environmental problems and potential solutions helps individuals be active and educated participants in public discussions and make informed personal decisions. Despite the significance of these issues, many universities do not require a course in climate science, but rather include it in a list of options. Fewer students may engage in these courses because they may fear the complexity or unfamiliarity of the concepts covered. One strategy to overcome these barriers is to focus on scientific literacy. This paper discusses how the goal of helping all students attain scientific literacy about energy, climate, and the environment is being achieved in a general education class. In this class, students’ scientific literacy is developed by providing tools to increase their understanding of the topics with a focus on data interpretation and critical thinking skills. This paper also describes learning outcomes and assessments of the class, student motivation and concerns, and our approach to increasing scientific literacy about energy, climate, and the environment.