Episode Guide

1. Alternative Energy — The first program in the series focuses on alternative energy and green design.  Students will get an up-close look at a working solar home with a one-of-a-kind tour from an energy efficiency engineer, go through an energy audit with an energy services consultant, and get a special peek at the research and development being conducted at the University of Maryland’s Energy Research Center. (101 – 29:59)

2. Geographic Information Systems — The second program in this series focuses on careers that use Geographical Information.  Students can learn how communities promote healthy forest ecosystems and how Police Departments use GIS to help reduce the amount of crimes. (102 – 28:32)

3. Sustainability — Students will see how a civil engineer, environmental scientist, water restoration specialist, and others from The PBSJ Corporation are working together on a green building renovation of a community library; a green mission specialist from Whole Foods Market will take students on a guided expedition through a composting facility; Waples Mill Elementary (VA) students will show their environmental stewardship; and students will be treated to a unique glimpse at top secret research being conducted at a major university.  (103 – 29:59)

4. Robotics — From Transformers to Cylons and from R2-D2 and C-3PO to Wall-E, robots are some of our favorite characters in movies and on television, and they have invaded more than just our imaginations! Students will learn how robots continue to transform the workplace, enhance our lives, and make it possible for humans to explore faraway planets.  We’ll see how scientists at NASA designed the robotic rovers Spirit and Opportunity to explore the planet Mars and how some middle and high school students build and program their own LEGO robots. (104 – 30:00)