Summer 2011: Energy

The 2011 theme, Energy: Science, Society and the Powering of Our Planet, is about more than just the current oil crisis that plagues our nation.

Students will study energy in all of its political, social, historical and scientific aspects.  Over the course of five weeks, students will work with energy officials, educators on the topics, governmental leaders and other energy experts to explore such questions as:
                       

• What are fossil fuels?
• What is clean energy?
• How do we tap new energy sources?
• What does past energy usage and discovery teach us?
• How do new energy policies get implemented?
• Has the oil crisis affect travel and globalization?
• Are there any privacy concerns with new and existing energy sources?

 
Working together, students will apply the knowledge and skills gained over the summer to address real world concerns.  Teams of students will work on projects to integrate insights gained from all disciplines – math, science/technology and humanities.  Students will need to understand the science behind any argument; analyze current statistical evidence and prepare their arguments based on available data; and be able to defend the argument within historical and political context.