What Should be the Role of Field Energy in Introductory Physics Courses?

Abstract

A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas gives the concept of field energy a prominent role in the physical sciences sections of its recommendations for K-12 science education. I examine what A Framework suggests for the role of field energy and point out that, given the ambiguities and complexities associated with field energy, a traditional approach focusing on potential (configuration) energy is more appropriate for introductory physics in secondary schools, colleges, and universities.