EMSC 302
Orientation to Energy and Sustainability Policy

Lesson 9 Overview

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icon of a globe representing a global perspective

Do you have a global perspective? The ESP program will help you work towards acquiring the following capabilities:
 

  • Illustrate and explain the geographic distributions of various energy resources.
  • Discuss case studies that reveal how global systems of energy production, distribution, and consumption are linked with social and environmental systems in particular places (e.g., climate change, water scarcity).
  • Document pertinent insights gained from an overseas field trip, internship, or other relevant international experience.

About this lesson

Global perspective prompts us to think about the context and scope of our energy planning decisions. It is often easy to find common ground with those who share our language, cultural norms, locale, and economic standing. In this lesson, you are challenged to step out of your comfort zone, and begin walking in someone else's shoes, so to speak.

It is important to be aware of our own bias and cultural perspective with respect to the rest of the world. In this lesson, we are trying to cultivate our awareness of biases and perspectives in "the other."

Why is it important to understand people, cultures, and practices that are different from us and our experiences? Because we know that energy-related issues (e.g., resource conversion, demand, exchange, and unwanted emissions) typically extend beyond political boundaries and insulated societies. Energy projects can exceed the scope of the immediate community of interested clients and often have regional or global impacts.

What will be due?

This lesson will take one week to complete. Please refer to the Course Syllabus page for specific time frames and due dates.

Questions?

If you have any questions, please e-mail the instructor using Canvas.