ET-841: The Science of Energy and Power in the Modern World

Course Information

Course, prefix, number, & title: ET-841 The Science of Energy and Power in the Modern World

Hours (Class, recitation, Laboratory, studio): 3

Credits: 3

Course Description in college catalog:

This course examines the science and technology of energy and how humans use it on a daily basis. Topics include: importance of energy in modern society; how energy is used in food production, materials, manufacturing, transportation, communications, lighting, heating and cooling ; the relationship between various forms of energy and greenhouse gases; individual and societal conservation methods and their economic and environmental impact; the laws of thermodynamics and equations relating energy, work and power; the electrical grid and elementary home and auto wiring; the p-n junction and active and passive solar technology; wind, hydro, wave, geo and ocean thermal renewable energy schemes; the fuel cell and the new generation of electromechanical propulsion; Law of Conservation of Energy.

Academic programs for which this course serves as a requirement or an elective:

A.A. Liberal Arts and Sciences

A.A.S. Computer Engineering Technology

A.A.S. Electronic Engineering Technology

Course-specific student learning outcomes:

Course objectives/expected student learning outcomes
Course Objectives Learning Outcomes
To investigate the role that energy plays in modern society and to demonstrate the forms of energy used in daily life, where they are derived from and how abundant and clean each form is. To demonstrate the best ways to conserve energy. Students will be able to make informed judgments on an individuals choice of energy use and how to be a green citizen.
To demonstrate the mathematical and technical aspects of different forms of energy utilization and other important green technologies Students will be exposed to consistently intelligent consumer practices for the uses and purchasing of energy. Students can use the analytical knowledge gained in their daily lives and on the job, as a green energy watchdog or officer.
To demonstrate the basic components of energy and green technology systems that enhances the efficient and clean use of energy. Students will undertake some real life practical projects for home and workplace, thus enhancing personal confidence and value to an employer.
To employ concepts and methods of energy sciences to make informed judgments. Students will investigate the principles of energy science and its use. They will be able to keep up with future developments in this rapidly evolving area which is important for the well-being of the individual and the earth. Students will demonstrate how the science of energy supports their objectives and make informed judgments and decisions involving energy.

Program-specific outcomes

a)     Identify and apply the fundamental concepts and methods of a life or physical science.

b)     Apply the scientific method to explore natural phenomena, including hypothesis development, observation, experimentation, measurement, data analysis, and data presentation.

c)     Use the tools of a scientific discipline to carry out collaborative laboratory investigations.

d)     Gather, analyze, and interpret data and present it in an effective written laboratory or fieldwork report.

Identify and apply research ethics and unbiased assessment in gathering and reporting scientific data.

Methods by which student learning will be assessed and evaluated; describe the types of methods to be employed; note whether certain methods are required for all sections:

  • Blackboard online Quiz
  • Homework
  • Laboratory Exercises
  • Midterm and Final Examinations
  • Written Oral Presentation

Academic Integrity policy (department or College):
Academic honesty is expected of all students. Any violation of academic integrity is taken extremely seriously. All assignments and projects must be the original work of the student or teammates. Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Any questions regarding academic integrity should be brought to the attention of the instructor. The following is the Queensborough Community College Policy on Academic Integrity: "It is the official policy of the College that all acts or attempted acts that are violations of Academic Integrity be reported to the Office of Student Affairs. At the faculty member's discretion and with the concurrence of the student or students involved, some cases though reported to the Office of Student Affairs may be resolved within the confines of the course and department. The instructor has the authority to adjust the offender's grade as deemed appropriate, including assigning an F to the assignment or exercise or, in more serious cases, an F to the student for the entire course." Read the University's policy on Academic Integrity opens in a new window(PDF).

Disabilities
Any student who feels that he or she may need an accommodation based upon the impact of a disability should contact the Office of Accessibility Services in Science Building, Room S-132, 718-631-6257, to coordinate reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities. You can visit the Office of Accessibility Services website.

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