problem based learning - k-12 - nuclear power safety

Detailed Description:

The students will be presented with a problem scenario where they will determine if reactor plants used to create nuclear energy pose a risk to the environment and to residents and if the risk is acceptable when weighed against the contributions nuclear energy provides. There is no concrete answer to this problem, but many different opinions both on the pro and anti nuclear sides.Students will work in groups of four.  They will be presented with a problem scenario and resources on the learning website.  The students will use collaboration to develop hypotheses, determine what information and skills that they already have and what information that they need.  They will have the opportunity to work individually for research purposes and then together in the group to share, analyze, and synthesize information.  They can use the resources provided on the website or can seek out additional information. Students will keep a journal while working on the project where they will use articulation and develop concept maps to help understand the concepts that they are learning. The learning website will provide students with information on how to participate in the problem solving learning group.  The course teacher will be the facilitator and will participate in discussions with the groups as they are working together. Students can choose to take field trips and/or hold discussions with knowledgeable persons.  These can include trips to a nuclear reactor plant or discussions with environmental groups.

Learning Outcomes:

The learner will be able to:

• General understanding of how nuclear energy is created.
• Understanding of the impact that nuclear energy has on the environment.
• Evaluate what is an acceptable risk to the environment.
• Develop critical thinking skills through problem solving.