One of the key issues in reducing the use of energy is educating consumers on their options, especially in the realm of alternative energy. Ford, through its education program, is helping bring that information to high school students through a new curriculum.

The Ford Partnership for Advanced Studies (Ford PAS) has won awards for its educational efforts. It’s new curriculum, named “Working Toward Sustainability,” will guide students through the issues surrounding energy consumption and fossil fuels, as well as introduce them to alternative energy center. The curriculum is structured to build on students’ existing science knowledge and makes use of extensive hands-on-learning techniques.

The curriculum is being made available to teachers and schools free of charge and can be downloaded from the Ford PAS website. Teachers will also have the opportunity to pick and choose from four modules to help keep the curriculum relevant to their teaching plans and state requirements.

"Ford is excited to introduce a learning module that is generating great interest among students and that will have a clear impact on their futures. Working Toward Sustainability is an example of how classrooms can make a "real-world" connection, in which students offer solutions to the problems we face as a country," said Cheryl Carrier, Program Director for 21st Century Education Programs at Ford Motor Company Fund in a press release.

Ford PAS works with the Education Development Center to expand students’ experiences in science, engineering and math, as well as teach skills necessary in future careers, such as problem solving. Ford PAS instructional materials are already used in 300 sites and across 26 states.

There are a number of benefits that Ford receives from the work of Ford PAS, beyond community involvement. The curriculums are structured to help students develop the skills they’ll need as future employees of Ford — and it looks like Ford has decided that an in-depth knowledge of alternative energy sources is something that its future engineers will absolutely need from the first day of their employment. Ford PAS also engages in a little consumer education, helping prepare the future buyers of Fords that won’t be dependent on gasoline. Not only do schools, teachers and students reap benefits from Ford PAS’ work — so does Ford Motor Company.

The Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford, funds Ford PAS. In turn, Ford funds the foundation. Other educational initiatives have included Driving Skills for Life, an auto safety initiative aimed at teens.