Service Learning Blog Post

Kyle's Blog Post
For our service learning project we took a multi-faceted approach towards spreading information. With our cause, Nuclear Power and Pollution, we decided to spread the word using the most powerful outlets we could think of: First, we talked with The Conservation Law Foundation, a New England-based  environment advocacy group. They also suggested that the best way we can help is to spread the information. So with their guidance, our group also decided to add a Facebook page as well as reach out to local students at Salem State University and the city of Salem. We posted fliers in downtown Salem where our blog and Facebook address could be accessed. We talked with local residents as well as students when posting fliers. With this approach, we are hopeful that people who want to know more about the subject can assess our various social networks we have been working on.

I truly believe our service learning project did have an impact on the greater good for a few reasons. The most effective mechanism we used was word-of-mouth. The more people have access to information about nuclear power, the more apt they will be to take a stance, or at least be informed on the subject. By specifically targeting Salem residents and SSU students, our subject, purpose, and stance on nuclear power is relevant because Salem is contains a nuclear power plant.

If given the opportunity, I would like to participate in a service learning project like this again. I think there is something to be proud of when awareness can be brought to people, especially when you have group members as passionate about nuclear power and a need to seek alternate energy sources in the future. A service learning project is a valuable thing to teach students in the future because it allows students a chance to be responsible citizens and discover more about a subject that effects them in some way. It requires research into that subject and to take a stand on the issue and advocate for the side you believe in. These are skills that remain valuable for a lifetime because people have the liberty to agree or disagree with policies in our country. A service learning project is a small, yet important example of just that. I had a great time working with my partners on this project and I feel satisfied that we all made an effort we can be proud of.















Ashley's Blog Post


Brad’s Blog Post
For our service learning project we took a multi-faceted approach towards spreading information. With our cause, Nuclear Power and Pollution, it was very difficult to do a  hands on approach with this topic, so we, as a group concluded that we should spread the most powerful tool we can. Information. We talked with Conservation Law Foundation, which is New England environment advocacy group. They also suggested that the best way we can help is to spread the information. We also created a facebook  page, which we have been updating with links to our blog, helpful and informative sites, and weekly posts on various topics that center around the Nuclear Power and Pollution crisis in our area. We decided to reach the largest audience, we must physically get the word out there. We created a flier, with basic information about nuclear power and pollution, and the web addresses for our blog and the Conservation Law Foundation. I encouraged many people I talked to do research on their own, and that this company and ur group were great springboards to help if they truly became interested and motivated. I personally did not try to sway anyone into my opinion, but instead I wanted them to be able to make an educated decision for themselves. I wanted to give people the power to do this. We passed many of these fliers out locally, in the greater Salem area. This was a wonderful place to start with the ever looming image of the power plant as a stark reminder in the backdrop.
I truly believe the greatest immediate impact this had on the greater good is the power of knowledge. The more people become informed, the more they believe for or against a cause. Hopefully in time, with more people becoming educated and involved through any number of outreach groups, true change will come. In the end, only time will tell.
I would like to do something like this again. I truly enjoyed learning about how people saw and felt about nuclear power and pollution. If I were to do this again, I would shy away from the blog and spend more time in a hands on role. The blog was an excellent medium for our group as information was greatest tool and ally we had, but I enjoyed being outside and doing something, and I would like to again. As a future educator, I would like to get students involved into a whole class service learning project. We would have to take a different approach with fourth grade students, but the rewards would go beyond measure. It would potentially help the local area, and build a true sense of classroom community with all of the students working together towards an overarching goal.

http://www.clf.org/take-action/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nuclear-Power-Pollution/268145606562093

Service Learning Project

The service learning project for us was somewhat of a unique challenge when it came time to be ‘hands on’.  We are advocates for a cleaner, healthier environment by promoting sustainable energy means that are safer and more environmentally friendly.  However, feeling as though we are making an impact on our issue is difficult.  We had to scrap many of our service learning project ideas that seemed like tangible ways to really take a stand:  throw rocks at the power plant (potential legal risks), graffiti power plant (environmentally hypocritical), an organized sit-in (there’s only three of us…and no one wants to sit in there…).  So, we had to be smart about the way we participated in our project. First, we got all the facts.  We gathered information, the political, environmental, and economic ins and outs of the local and not-so-local power plants that threaten our livelihood.  We focused on the Salem Power Plant and learned how much effort and action it took to finally implement stricter regulations and a transitional shut-down plan.  We came to identify and understand the value of the pattern: cause for concern, spreading the information, demanding a change, and achieving an alternative solution.  Seeing as we can’t make up the laws ourselves and just three people cannot go against any power plant company, we decided the best way to carry out our service learning project was to spread word and become a small, but active, part of a big push toward change.  Organizations, such as HealthLink and the Environmental League of Massachusetts host clean ups and other service opportunities, but agreed that our best method of action was spreading the word.  In addition to signing the petition mentioned in our previous post, we took it upon ourselves to use today’s popular social networking forums to our advantage and to target our local and relevant audience around campus and in the Salem area.  Through our Facebook page and relentless hanging of fliers, awareness will be raised on our issue.  

 Knowledge will spread.  Motivation toward change will spark.  Alternative solutions will follow.

Here are some links that were relevant during our service learning project.  Also, don’t forget the links available along the side panel of our blog, as well!

http://www.clf.org/take-action/

http://www.environmentalleague.org/

http://www.healthlink.org

Our Facebook Page

Thank you to everyone for keeping up with our research and hard word.  We hope you use the information to earth’s advantage…

Read on to hear our reflections…

Kyle -

For our service learning project we took a multi-faceted approach towards spreading information. With our cause, Nuclear Power and Pollution, we decided to spread the word using the most powerful outlets we could think of: First, we talked with The Conservation Law Foundation, a New England-based  environment advocacy group. They also suggested that the best way we can help is to spread the information. So with their guidance, our group also decided to add a Facebook page as well as reach out to local students at Salem State University and the city of Salem. We posted fliers in downtown Salem where our blog and Facebook address could be accessed. We talked with local residents as well as students when posting fliers. With this approach, we are hopeful that people who want to know more about the subject can assess our various social networks we have been working on.

I truly believe our service learning project did have an impact on the greater good for a few reasons. The most effective mechanism we used was word-of-mouth. The more people have access to information about nuclear power, the more apt they will be to take a stance, or at least be informed on the subject. By specifically targeting Salem residents and SSU students, our subject, purpose, and stance on nuclear power is relevant because Salem is contains a nuclear power plant.

If given the opportunity, I would like to participate in a service learning project like this again. I think there is something to be proud of when awareness can be brought to people, especially when you have group members as passionate about nuclear power and a need to seek alternate energy sources in the future. A service learning project is a valuable thing to teach students in the future because it allows students a chance to be responsible citizens and discover more about a subject that effects them in some way. It requires research into that subject and to take a stand on the issue and advocate for the side you believe in. These are skills that remain valuable for a lifetime because people have the liberty to agree or disagree with policies in our country. A service learning project is a small, yet important example of just that. I had a great time working with my partners on this project and I feel satisfied that we all made an effort we can be proud of.

Ashley -

Generally, when an assignment such as this one comes along and we are allowed to choose our own topic, I am likely to select issues related to the food industry or nutritional concerns.  With that said, I was pleasantly surprised to find that taking on something a little different this time ended up being so interesting and fulfilling.  I enjoyed doing the research around this issue.  I found that I had an initial stance of wanting healthier sustainable energy sources, but with further investigation, I had more of a profound understanding and confirmation as to why I should have that stance and how deeper rooted concern for the issue.  The facts were overwhelming and how relevant this issue is to our local area is alarming.  I think that learning about the topic and even informing our peers about the controversial issue was easier than actually cracking down and putting action into our cause.  I feel like our topic exemplified the saying ‘easier said than done’ because we know why the current status of power plants is harmful and we know we want alternative solutions for that energy, but transforming that into a reality proved difficult.  So, as three college kids often do, we turned to our computers and our smart phones and started talking.  We created a Facebook page and got people to ‘Like’ what we don’t like about the power plant situation.  We hung fliers around campus and created visual disruption that will hopefully get people to think and take action themselves.  It’s hard to make a bold statement that we did something really amazing for the greater good.  However, if I have learned anything in social studies throughout my years of school it is that social change starts small.  Our little group is a small part of a larger movement.  It is our civic duty to work together to promote the change we believe will be better for our society.  In terms of teaching, I think a service learning project is valuable learning strategy for students.  It gives them a sense of capability and instills the importance of both living and learning to full potential in order to obtain the highest quality of life.  A service learning project incorporates many of the integral concepts that are the foundation of social studies, including cooperation toward social change.  I would want my students to understand what was confirmed for me during this assignment: no issue is too big to challenge and no action is too small to make a difference.

Brad -

For our service learning project we took a multi-faceted approach towards spreading information. With our cause, Nuclear Power and Pollution, it was very difficult to do a  hands on approach with this topic, so we, as a group concluded that we should spread the most powerful tool we can. Information. We talked with Conservation Law Foundation, which is New England environment advocacy group. They also suggested that the best way we can help is to spread the information. We also created a facebook  page, which we have been updating with links to our blog, helpful and informative sites, and weekly posts on various topics that center around the Nuclear Power and Pollution crisis in our area. We decided to reach the largest audience, we must physically get the word out there. We created a flier, with basic information about nuclear power and pollution, and the web addresses for our blog and the Conservation Law Foundation. I encouraged many people I talked to do research on their own, and that this company and ur group were great springboards to help if they truly became interested and motivated. I personally did not try to sway anyone into my opinion, but instead I wanted them to be able to make an educated decision for themselves. I wanted to give people the power to do this. We passed many of these fliers out locally, in the greater Salem area. This was a wonderful place to start with the ever looming image of the power plant as a stark reminder in the backdrop.

 I truly believe the greatest immediate impact this had on the greater good is the power of knowledge. The more people become informed, the more they believe for or against a cause. Hopefully in time, with more people becoming educated and involved through any number of outreach groups, true change will come. In the end, only time will tell.

 I would like to do something like this again. I truly enjoyed learning about how people saw and felt about nuclear power and pollution. If I were to do this again, I would shy away from the blog and spend more time in a hands on role. The blog was an excellent medium for our group as information was greatest tool and ally we had, but I enjoyed being outside and doing something, and I would like to again. As a future educator, I would like to get students involved into a whole class service learning project. We would have to take a different approach with fourth grade students, but the rewards would go beyond measure. It would potentially help the local area, and build a true sense of classroom community with all of the students working together towards an overarching goal.

Blog #6: Service Learning Projects

It has been a while since we last posted...but not to worry! We're still working hard as a group to take a stand against power plant pollution.  Our service project is moving right along.  We have a Facebook page, which we will present in accordance with our Economics mini lesson.  The page will include status updates informing you of what has been happening in the environmentalist world and with our specific group.  We will have links and information related to what our group is up to in terms of our service learning project, who we are working with, and how YOU should join us in our mission.  Get ready to press that ‘Like’ button, folks!

We are currently in communication with HealthLink; a non-profit, community watchdog organization started in 1997 out of Swampscott by a group of concerned individuals dedicated to correcting and protecting the environment and its people.  Their mission (...and now ours...): to protect and improve public health by reducing and eliminating pollutants and toxic substances from our environment, through research, education, and community action.

HealthLink is mainly responsible for the adjustment in stricter regulations for the Salem Harbor Generating Station, making it an ideal organization to partner with for our service learning project.  They want 'good health and a clean environment' and so do we!  So, here are some avenues that we are taking to help them in their cause for our project.  We are each becoming members of the “Supporter Network” for HealthLink.  Our membership costs ten dollars each and is considered valid for one year.  Upon membership, we will sign the petition available through the HealthLink website.  The organization also accepts donations from members and non-members.  What will truly be our service project is working in partnership with HealthLink to relay their noble message to the college community, in conjunction with Salem State University publications, as well as our local neighborhoods through flyers and other means of communication.  We will keep you informed as to more specifics as communication continues.  

Contact Info:

HealthLink

P.O Box 301

Swampscott, MA 01907

781.598.115

Email:healthlink@healthlink.org

Website: healthlink.org

Another contact has been the Environmentalist League of Massachusetts.  Located in Boston, the ELM has a similar mission as HealthLink, specifically dedicated to safeguarding the land, water, and air of the Commonwealth.  Because they are a larger organization working on several projects at once, it is highly possible they, too, will have an opportunity for us to complete our service learning project.  We have merely emailed the Office Manager, Eileen Mullen, and if a response is not received by the end of this week, we will call George Bachrach, the President of ELM.

Contact Info:

Environmentalism League of Massachusetts

14 Beacon Street
Suite 714
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-742-2553
Fax: 617-742-9656 
Email: info@environmentalleague.org

Website: environmentalleage.org

Reconnecting with our topic…

Brad -

1.) After staying away from the blog for a while, reconnecting with it
has added a bit of perspective. Nuclear power is definitely an ever
present and looming issue. With all the risks and recent issues,
people tend to ignore the problem instead of working towards a
solution. The question I ask is why? The reasons are beginning to
become clear. People, even though they recognize nuclear power as an
issue, they see it as a passive issue, rather than an active issue.
Because of this people tend to just let it go. The best way to counter
this issue is information. The more people learn about Nuclear power
and its subsequent issues, the more they will see this as an active
issue and be much more likely to become involved. This is our goal
with this blog. Information is power.

2.) In the classroom, there should be room for students to get
involved in issues relevant tom them in which they are motivated
about. There is definitely a struggle in the modern classroom trying
to find the time to commit to it. This lies in Social Studies, and
this is the key difference between social studies and history in the
elementary classroom. With social studies, students should of the
past, and work towards their desired future through social action.
This is meant to be in the curriculum, but I feel as though it is
being systematically phased out to focus on lessons for standards
based testing. The best way to engage students in topics is to connect
the topics to the student. Make outside the class and inside the
classroom feel related and equally relevant. The best way to find out
what they are interested in is through listening. If kids are
interested in something, you as the teacher, will hear about it.

3.) There is definitely an effort to make students study both social
sciences and humanities in the idea to promote civic responsibility in
the classroom I observe. However, thirty minutes of social studies
twice a week is no where near enough time to get involved in the
students lives. I believe if you can get the students involved, they
will be civically responsible. The biggest connection I see is the
involvement. This project gets you involved in the community, with
something you are interested in. It is a great model to use with
future students.

Ashley –

1.      I researched a bit to see if there is any news around my topic.  I did not come up with anything on a local level.  However, the historic earthquake in Japan that happened almost eight months ago, of course, continues to raise concern around the Tokyo Electric Power Company.  According to a CNN article (http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/03/world/asia/japan-nuclear), a rare type of radioactive decay was discovered.  Tokyo Electric investigated, making sure that this was not a renewed chain reaction from the damaged fuel build up at the bottom of the reactor vessel.  Japan continues to make weekly checks on xenon levels to make sure they are consistent with spontaneous fission.  In all honesty, this and other articles that get pretty specific about the toxins and chemicals and levels involved in the power plants can be rather confusing.  But all of this specific science is the key behind determining how potentially dangerous/harmful these power plants can be if not treated with the upmost caution.  In that sense, I suppose discovering that a power plant eight months after a catastrophe is still a major concern validates how I feel about these power plants in general and reconnects me with my topic.

2.      I’m sure as a teacher is often feels like there is no more space for anything! But citizenship and taking action on issues of important should absolutely be made a part of the curriculum.  I do not necessarily view it as an additional feature for which space and scheduling is (always) required, but rather an underlying or intertwined consideration throughout other curriculum areas.  Social studies is an obvious way to promote citizenship and to have  specific subject area designated for students.  However, I would use other subject areas as an opportunity to spark interest in topics.  Language and literacy could involve reading books or other text involving the subject.  Writing activities could be geared toward the topic…for example, a writing piece using rhyming could also be an opportunity to write a poem/rap about the topic.  Math could involve statistics or number values related to the issue.  Like anything else in school, we do not want to overdo something to the point where it becomes monotonous for the student.  Instead, we should give them ample opportunities to embrace and explore what it is that they feel has meaning.   As their teacher, it would be my responsibility to motivate these young individuals to identify and acknowledge the issues they feel strongly about and to motivate them to conduct the appropriate research and action necessary/related to citizenship.  Whatever it takes – adjustments in teaching methods, different or additional materials, or even more class and one-on-one discussions geared toward students values – a classroom alone is room enough for citizenship in the curriculum.

3.      I believe the school where I am conducting my fieldwork is effectively teaching in accordance with the NCSS social studies definition and standards.  I take note of children transforming into thoughtful, considerate, and motivated individuals dedicated to making a difference in their classroom, their school, and even in their community.  The school is helping promote civic competence with each grade level.  This service learning project does help me make the connection between teacher and student and modeling inquiry.  As I participate in the project, I am reminded of what ‘taking action’ entails, which has definitely affected how I think in terms of what I believe it will be like to, as a teacher, encourage students to get involved in their own topics.  When I re-read the definition, I am reminded that promoting civic competence in my students , in a way that embraces who they are as individuals and encourages them to unite collectively , should be a constant goal for me as a teacher.

Kyle -

1. After working with our group to create this blog, my knowledge about nuclear energy has certainly grown. Nuclear energy remains a "hot topic" in the media, often showing up in popular newspapers and magazines. This is issue is so widespread, that it can be examined on a global level. Although this blog is dedicated to a local issues, it is good that this issue receives recognition on a global scale. This fact makes our topic timely, important, and relevant to our lives. 

I was able to find a really great website that helps illustrate the United States' over indulgence of nuclear power:

http://www.eia.gov/nuclear/ 

^this site provides accurate and current statistics about nuclear power as well as nuclear timeline highlighting the birth of nuclear power in the united states. From here, the website offers current articles on issues surrounding nuclear power. There are links to other sites that are dedicated to moving away from nuclear energy by exploring new technologies and systems to provide harm-free, renewable energy. This site provides hope that our Department of Energy is realizing that coal-burning nuclear power plants are outmoded and can be replaced. Although nuclear power plants are still prevalent in the eastern part of the U.S., there are strives being made to shift the way we view and produce energy. With enough organizations supporting renewable energy sources and technological advance, there appears to be hope for our well-being. 

2. I firmly believe that citizenship should be embedded in the curriculum for students. Current event issues effect every American citizen and can help provide concrete, real-life application to social studies concepts studied in the classroom. As evident in many school curriculums, students are usually not fully involved in issues happening outside the classroom. Local, state, and national issues can be easily be intertwined with social studies standards. Unfortunately, this sometimes does not get exercised enough as teachers fail to find space in the curriculum. As a future educator, I think it is vital to have my students be actively involved in current event issues. This can be accomplished by activating students' background knowledge of timely issues of the day. A teacher could start by presenting their students with a few "hot topics" circulating in the news and have students openly discuss a topic by sharing their ideas and opinions. From here, students can understand different perspectives on the topic. As a discipline, social studies connects us to the world around us--whether it is local issues or worldly affairs. As responsible citizens, teachers and students must be actively involved. 

3. I believe that the definition of social studies as provided by NCSS stands true at my elementary school, but not as extensively as it could be. In the lower elementary grades, this definition is harder to implement and is less prevalent. I think there is always room to improve curriculum  to promote civic competence. I definitely think that the new frameworks that NCSS is implementing is healthy for the social studies classroom. Being connected and tied into timely topics and issues can definitely help reach the goal of producing productive students, but more importantly, productive citizens. After a few months of being involved with our group's topic on nuclear energy, we are certainly modeling one way to achieve civil competence. This blog directly correlates to the definition of social studies and how social studies should be taught. We are taking our knowledge of nuclear power, taking a side, and applying our knowledge by investigating and getting involved. 

Blog-4 An Interesting Question

        Within the realm of nuclear power and pollution there are many points for discussion.  A true, productive and active discussion must be facilitated appropriately to allow for the topic to be considered deeply and for everyone to have the opportunity to contribute their critical thoughts.  A discussion must allow for all perspectives and views to be considered.  It is a forum where people can share their ideas and see how others view the topic. These are much more dynamic conversations than static ones, with thoughts, beliefs, facts, and opinions constantly moving and changing.

         There are four main approaches for a discussion.  First,  the most basic and most often used route is when a discussion will respond to a posed or presented issue.  The discussion revolves around this issue.  The second form of discussion is centered on an observation made by those present in the discussion. This is a reflective form of discussion.  The third type of discussion is responding to a narrative or written piece. What is interesting is that the same narrative may spark a variety of responses because of the different interpretations that can take place.  This discussion is very active as you learn other people's opinions and thoughts. The final type of discussion is reflecting on an activity that the group has done together or as a class. This is also a reflective style of discussion where students may talk about a simulation or reenactment recently observed.  Here on this blog, we are responding to what is a very serious problem - discussion approach #1.  We pose the question to our readers: Is the pollution created by nuclear power worth the energy created? What other factors play into this?

The difference between an in depth discussion and a meaningless argument is related to how organized, productive, and respectful the conversation is when taking place. In an argument, there are no rules or order. In a discussion, there are best practices that should be used to facilitate people's learning and engagement in the discussion. These best practices should guide the group through their discussion.

• The group should create a set of guidelines and rules for the fairness.
• These discussions may get off topic and foray into an excellent conversation, but there should be certain target topics to discuss
• The facilitator or teacher will guide the discussion through the student's involvement, not force them.
• Rephrase one statement into a question for another to answer
• The facilitator must keep the group motivated and on track
• A good pace must be kept by the facilitator
• The facilitator should constantly be modeling good behavior.

As we look at these points, I will pose a few more questions on the pressing issue of nuclear power and pollution,

1. How does the public perception of nuclear power affect the pursuit of clean energy?
2. Look at this picture of the aftermath of the Japanese Nuclear Meltdown. How does this affect your perception of the safety of nuclear power?
3. Which do you see as the greater issue, Pollution or risk of meltdown?
4. What do you see as the greatest barrier to clean energy?

The best way to facilitate the discussion is to keep it running smoothly, maintaining focus on the topic and productive conversation that involves critical thinking and respect for other views.  Rules for the discussion, perhaps even arranged by the students themselves, should be clarified before the discussion begins. The facilitator should have a path they wish the discussion to follow in their notes on hand. With our particular discussion, the stimulus has already been presented. The facilitator should be doing more monitoring and posing questions than responding.  It is the job of the facilitator to keep discussion on topic and directly related to what the students have learned. The facilitator must also be mindful of the pace of the discussion, including making sure that adequate time is given for each and all student responses in order to help promote respectful participation.  The facilitator should constantly model discussion behavior for students to observe and repeat themselves.  Particularly with an online discussion, it is important that the facilitator takes the opportunity to present the topic further if he/she notices enthusiasm or energy appears low.  This may be a time to review what has already been presented for information or introduce a new item or aspect related to the topic that may trigger more thoughts within the group and hopefully, more active responses in the discussion.

________________________________________________________________________

This power group is currently plugging along behind the scenes working on a service learning project that will help make a difference and hopefully spark some interest in other people to do the same!  Our initial plan at this time is creating a Facebook page.  Like our blog, this will be an outlet for information, links, and a forum for discussion related to our topic.  However, the unique aspects of Facebook will allow more a more active presence for our group and a more interactive outlet for our 'followers'.  We will use the page to post snippets of current evens or shocking facts.  We plan to create events in connection with our page that will create a bigger presence for us to help raise awareness of our message.  This will also be an entity taking action and communicating with other Facebook accounts related to the topic.  Stay tuned for more details.  We know you'll 'Like' it!

Post #3: Critical Attributes...Taking action...

The power plant creates a large amount of energy, which is incredibly important and useful. However, what is more ‘powerful’ is the harm this process creates for the environment and our people. The way our group sees it, is that with so many other safer, and cleaner potential sources of energy these plants are not worth the risk.  Therefore, when we think about teaching about the topic, we keep in mind the critical attributes and pairing informational knowledge with procedural knowledge to provide students with an accurate concept that will help them form an opinion and act in society accordingly…

Critical Attributes:

1. Nuclear power puts carbon emissions in the air

-"Fossil fuel-based electricity is projected to account for more than 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions by 2020," said Deutch. "In the U.S. 90% of the carbon emissions from electricity generation come from coal-fired generation, even though this accounts for only 52% of the electricity produced. Taking nuclear power off the table as a viable alternative will prevent the global community from achieving long-term gains in the control of carbon dioxide emissions." (Massachusetts Institute of Technology study).

2. Nuclear Power is extremely expensive

-Starting a new nuclear facility can cost billions of dollars and have pricey repairs and can make for dangerous situations for employees. 

3. Nuclear power contaminates water supplies

-Reports of radioactive substances being released to nearby bodies of water is frequent in our country. Even mining the materials used in nuclear plants can run risk of water contamination. Substances such as titanium and uranium used in nuclear plants are mined everyday. This causes a hazard to our drinking water and the environment as a whole. 

4. Nuclear power does not reduce our dependency on foreign oil in the Middle East

-A common misconception is that nuclear power plants will lower the need for oil in the United States, because of the large quantities of electricity power plants produce. This simply is not true considering power plants produce only electricity and not fossil fuel. Gas consumption continues to rise because many Americans use gasoline for their automobiles. 

5. Viable sources for "clean energy" already exist

-We already hold the technology necessary to make a collaborative effort to change the way we receive our energy. Our country as a whole remains too dependent on foreign oil. Unfortunately this change is happening slowly because it takes people a long time to change their ways.

Informational knowledge:

-Nuclear power contributes only 20-22% of our electricity; yet studies have shown that in the U.S. we waste or inefficiently use between 25% - 44% of all electricity generated!

-Three separate studies done by government and private firms since 1982 have shown that the U.S. has the potential to conserve the electrical equivalent of between 145 to 210 nuclear power plants! Only 108 are currently in operation.

-The nuclear industry claims that nuclear-generated electricity costs 11õ/kilowatt-hour (kwh); electricity from the newest nuclear plants costs 15-25õ/kwh.

-It takes from 7 to 12 years to build a nuclear power plant. Yet, conservation and efficiency programs cost between 0.5-4.0õ/kwh, and can be implemented in between 6 months to 2 years.

-A 1990 report done by the internationally respected Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), indicated that, "Use of energy-saving technologies would result in a saving [by the year 2000]...of 24 to 44% of electric consumption." Using less energy does not mean "hardship;" it represents "wisdom." The Japanese, Germans, and Swedes enjoy the same standard of living as we do in the United States -- yet use 40% to 60% less energy than we use!

Procedural Knowledge:

This issue is more important than just the simple facts.  Sure, energy is made from power plants.  What we need to keep in mind is the procedure – the bigger picture – and how all of these components fit together to form one significant process.  In this case the process is pollution.  The valuable knowledge is knowing how the simple facts of energy gained by power plants and then causing pollution creates a negative cycle for society that effects the health of current and future generations.  Understanding the magnitude of this issue is most important; which can only be achieved by knowing procedural knowledge with informational.

When we teach this content to students, it is important to keep in mind both these critical attributes; the procedural knowledge necessary to give students an accurate, holistic picture of what power plants are and what they do.  This method of teaching provides them with more of the skills necessary in helping them mature into affective citizens. 

1. Nuclear power is not an efficient energy source and is harmful to our environment.

2. Recognize that we as a country are too dependent on this source of electricity and there are more efficient (cleaner) ways to accomplish this task.

3. Join an organization to help:

We are currently thinking how we can help at a local level.  We expect to make contact with organizations such as HealthLink to better educate ourselves about the plan for local power plants and jump on board with those advocating for healthier environments while power plants still remain open. We would also like to join forces with any of the following to be a small part of the bigger movement…   

        -Greenpeace International:

        http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/campaigns/nuclear/

        -Friends of Earth:

        http://www.foe.org/energy/dont-buy-nuclear-lie

        -Nuclear Information & Resource Service:

        http://www.nirs.org/climate/background/cdmnukesnirsbackground.htm

What we're doing...

Brad- I signed a letter that was sent to the senate against nuclear energy. You can see the petition here: https://secure2.convio.net/sierra/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=5917&s_src=611CSCHP01.  It was rather interesting signing and sending this. It create a deep sense of ownership over this issue. However small, I feel as though I have become a part of a movement for a safer, cleaner, and an overall better world to live in. This was a powerful experience in a small way. I am excited to do more, to make change for the better.

Kyle - I signed the same petition as Brad as a way to take part in what we believe is a serious, important issue.  At this point, anyone who is aware of the negative effects of power plants should be doing anything, if not everything, they can to motivate politicians to make changes that will better our society.  I do not want to raise my kids in such a polluted environment.  If my signature helps make changes for the better, I'm more than willing to sign.

Ashley - I also signed the petition that Brad and Kyle posted. When signing something like a petition of that nature, it is difficult to not feel sort of pointless and ineffective.  However, I think of my interview with the Salem mother who admitted to being fortunate of those who were more active in the cause.  Where would we be if everyone felt like their signature could not make the difference necessary?  My name may not cause change, but combined with the efforts of others, perhaps we can.  I'm looking forward to jumping into our service project and getting more active.  It is always fulfilling to know you're a part of your own cause and the cause of others to help better the society we live in ...and the air we're breathing.

Blog #2: Local Interviews on Nuclear Power

Kyle:

I chose to interview my uncle Jerry. He is a lifetime resident of Salem, resides on the water so that the power plant is constantly visible. His house has been in the family for many generations.  Jerry is also a businessman in Salem and recently ran for Councilor of Ward 5 in Salem and was runner-up. Jerry is a very active and well-received member of the Salem community and I felt he was a good person to interview on the subject because of his knowledge of Salem.

Is this a problem you think is important?  Why/ Why not?

“It is a problem? I mean…yeah its not good. But until people are totally onboard with alternative energy sources we must rely on what we have. All we have done is burned coal because nobody has told us otherwise. Until there is government policy to shut these plants down, it will still be there. I know this sounds like I don’t care, but I do. I just know that the U.S. is in a recession right now, we are in a voting year, and policies, yes, could potentially happen in the future. I just hope I do not see health effects from being a resident of Salem my whole life.

Do you think others in our community this is an important problem? why/ why not?

It’s funny. I think surrounding communities have just as much a problem with the power plant as Salem residents. The campaign against the power plant has definitely intensified over the last 5-8 years. I support it.

What policy, if any, does government now have to deal with this problem?

The government needs to step in and devise a plan to provide more jobs and money for technology. That way, the development of alternate energy can grow and grow. Then, the U.S. needs to commit to a plan of action to do away with old ways of providing power. This is no small task if you think about it.

While it was hard to read what side Jerry was on about the power plant, he did know that it should be removed. He did support local groups who are working to close the plant. When I told him that the plant would be closing in 2014, he replied “This a very good thing.” I learned that even a lifetime citizen from Salem can overlook a power plant right in the front yard. However, in Jerry’s case, his perspective on the issue is legitimate. He’s older and has never seen efforts  made to close the plant until now. He clearly knows that nuclear power is not the best for the environment, but understands that clean energy will take time to develop. His views were informative and provided good opinion. 




Brad:
Donald, Salem Property Owner

Do you think nuclear power and pollution is an important issue?
“It is an issue, but there are more pressing issues in our community. The power plants are regulated like streets are patrolled.”

Do you think others think this is a serious issue?
“Most people probably realize there is controversy, but they don’t see a huge issue as there haven’t been any serious problems lately that affect people around here.”

Do you know of any policies in place? (after the question was answered, some of the policies were explained to Donald)
“I know many companies, power plants included, are allowed to pollute, but how or why, I really have no idea.”

What are some advantages and disadvantages to these policies?
“Well with the permits there is good and bad. This limits the pollution, but on the other hand there still is pollution, and with this less work is put towards reducing the actual emissions when you can just buy a permit.”

How might the policy be improved?
“there really isn’t a legitimate way to improve this method.”

In that case, what policy would you put in place?
“There should be a systematic elimination of  permits which would cause companies to spend their own R & D (research and development) money into finding more efficient ways of producing energy. Necessity is often the engine of change.”

What disagreements about this exist in the community?
“I would think most people would do away with pollution if they could, but it is not that simple. There are a lot of other factors such as the jobs, energy created, and alternatives. This is where people will disagree.”

Doing this interview, I gained an insight into what people see as an issue. The pollution that is caused by power plants is not always directly visibly to everyone. They do not see the issue as a big problem because there is not a direct effect on their lives. If people gain more insight into the issue, they are more likely to be invested in it, as Donald became. The key is information, as people become informed, they develop opinions.

Ashley:
I interviewed Patricia, a life-long North Shore resident and parent of three small children.  After knowing Patricia for a few years, I have found her to be an invested parent conscious of the safety and health of her children.  In addition, she tends to be a believer in all natural, organic means of living.  I was curious what her standpoint would be about nuclear power plants, particularly the Salem plant, which is visible from her home.  Although always trying to achieve a healthier lifestyle for her and her family, it appears the power plant is a looming evil lurking in the skyline.

 

Is this a problem you think is important?

"Yeah, I’ve always been nervous about the effects of that plant.  I think we should be very concerned about what plants like that are doing to the world around us.  I want to know that the air I breathe is safe and that water I take my kids to with the plant plain in sight is safe for swimming.  I just can’t imagine that anything like that doesn’t have toxic effects for us.  I’m sure it was a beneficial power source at one point, but is that even the case anymore?  The building itself looks like it is falling apart – I doubt it meets safety standards.  If it does, it doesn’t meet my standards as a parent."

Do you think others in our community view this as an important problem?

"I’m not sure everyone thinks about it.  We are used to looking out our window or going to the beach and just seeing it.  The kids even think it looks cool at night.  So, I think a lot of people have gotten used to the sight of it and have forgotten its purpose or its effects.  Then again, I know there are people out there who think of it more than I do and have even stronger negative reactions than myself.  I’m worried about it, but haven’t done anything about it.  I’m grateful to those out there taking action."

What policy, if any, does government now have to deal with this problem?  Advantages?

"I know that they are planning on closing it soon.  I heard that should happen by 2014 with maybe some parts closing sooner than that.  Obviously, it would be my goal to have the whole thing shut down as soon as possible.  That way whatever harmful effects to my health and that of my kids can be put to a stop."

What are the disadvantages?

"As grateful as I am to see an end to this power plant in sight, I can’t help but think that so much damage is already done.  I also would rather not have to wait until 2014 for the plant to close considering that is three years away.  I understand the law needs to give the business time to shut down and there are certain procedures to follow…I just wish we could move more quickly for the sake of our health.  Health should rate above money."

How might this policy be improved?

"Like I said, if there was any way to have this closing happen sooner – that would be ideal.  I hope they are looking into all local power plants and using whatever research they can to determine the exact health consequences of these plants and using that as an incentive to find other sources of power."

Based on my interview, it seems that an average Salem resident like Patricia knows that a power plant is a dangerous building for both the environment and our local families.  However, without being aware as to how harmful the plant is, individuals are likely to wait around for the legally enforced shut-down.  Like Patricia, I find myself grateful that there are others out there doing more than worrying, complaining, and waiting.  It is most likely because of those activists that this change in the right direction of closing the power plants is happening as soon as it is.

What do YOU think??