Students completing EGY 105 will be able to:

• Understand the physical basis of energy in our universe, its importance in biological systems, and various ways in which it is measured.
• Understand the history of energy use both worldwide and in “developed” countries.
• Understand current trends of energy production and consumption locally, nationally, and worldwide.
• Critically evaluate arguments about the sustainability of fossil fuels and nuclear energy
• Learn and critically evaluate information about the benefits and weaknesses of potential sources of alternative energy from a variety of perspectives (potential energy yield, economic, environmental, sociopolitical)
• Examine whether we can improve energy efficiency and reduce consumption
• Develop a well-reasoned personal philosophy about the present energy situation and the best way to move forward on developing and implementing alternative sources.
• Understand employment opportunities that relate to energy.
• Take more advanced courses in Wilkes’s Interdisciplinary Energy Minor

• Students will develop a mature attitude about - and lifelong interest in - energy issues, and will assert leadership on that topic long after the course is completed, whether as citizens or through careers that involve energy in some way.
  
  Note:  Past students of this course have gone on to hold elected office, secure meaningful employment, and otherwise make important decisions on energy-related issues.  I hope the same will be true for the EGY 105 class this semester.
  
  

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• Can we, and should we, switch from fossil fuels to non-fossil-based alternatives?

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