Exploring Complexities of Energy Options Through a Jigsaw Activity

Abstract

Currently, the world’s transportation and commerce infrastructure is designed for coal, oil, and natural gas—energy resources, which are relatively easy to transport and store, can be used when desired, and have low production costs and high energy output. However, these fossil fuels are nonrenewable and have significant negative side effects. Therefore, we are in an energy crisis, and it may be argued that alternative energy sources (anything besides fossil fuels) should be used to help “solve” this crisis. However, factors such as economic and environmental costs and efficiency need to be considered when looking at the possibility of transitioning to these alternatives. The goal of the learning activity in this chapter is for students to learn about energy sources through a jigsaw activity so that they can explain the advantages and disadvantages of each. After completing the activity, students should be able to (1) define the concept of net energy ratio and explain how it impacts the viability of an energy source, (2) articulate the advantages and disadvantages of using different energy sources, (3) describe what an externality is and list ones associated with using fossil fuels, and (4) explain the challenges of replacing fossil fuels with alternative energy sources.