Energy use and conservation in the residential sector Methodological questions and policy prescriptions
Abstract Whatever future energy path is chosen in the USA, it will be critical to know energy supply and demand patterns at the micro (family) level. This article examines public surveys which gather information at this level and then suggests possibilities for further research.
Public Opinion About Energy
This summary of findings from hundreds of studies is devoted to an interpretation of public preferences as parameters for policymaking. Gaps in existing knowledge about what people say and what they do about energy are also identified. Research gaps exist for energy conservation, solar energy, oil as an energy source, coal, environmental effects, and energy trade-offs. Overall, most studies on energy opinion are atheoretical, which limits their usefulness for policy purposes and perpetuates research gaps. From the few theoretical analyses that have been done, the following hypotheses for further research are suggested: (1) that willingness to conserve energy, adopt solar energy, and accept other alternatives, such as nuclear power or gasoline rationing, are a function of belief in an energy crisis; (2) that belief in an energy crisis is a function of (a) attribution of the energy problem to the declining availability of fossil fuels rather than to sociopolitical and economic causes; (b) negative energy-related impacts experienced or anticipated; (c) awareness of energy facts and issues; (d) environmental concern; and (e) exposure to credible information sources with high levels of factual knowledge; and (3) that adoption of energy-conserving practices and of solar energy is a function of (a) their perceivedmore » effectiveness; (b) concern about any risks involved; (c) assessment of the relative advantage of doing so; (d) awareness and knowledge; (e) a favorable position toward it; (f) the availability of the necessary information and equipment; and (g) coming to a decision to act. 150 references, 3 figures, 5 tables.« less
Fieldwork in geography teaching: A critical review of the literature and approaches
Abstract Virtually all lecturers in geography recognise the importance of fieldwork as a vital mode of teaching in the subject. This paper draws on material produced as part of a HEFCE review of teaching and learning in the field and assesses the implications of recent changes in higher education for field studies in geography. The literature on the development of, and recent changes in, fieldwork practice is reviewed and assumptions about appropriate forms of teaching and assessment are challenged. The need for carefully integrated preparation of project‐orientated fieldwork is stressed and the importance of debriefing and feedback after field visits is emphasised. Various suggestions for guidelines on good practice are presented. Finally, a range of future issues and problems in fieldwork is identified and discussed.