Solar Energy is becoming a significant topic for study in schools and universities. The next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators will be responsible for developing new technologies that help us harness the power of the sun sustainably. As a result, educators need to understand how to teach their students about solar energy and its potential applications.
There are many different ways to teach about solar energy, below are some examples of how you can integrate solar technology into classroom activities and lesson plans.
1. Building Solar-Powered Robots: Robotics and coding classes are increasingly popular, and demonstrating the capabilities of photovoltaic panels is a great way to engage students. Solar-powered robots are particularly popular since they use renewable energy, which means they are eco-friendly and offer a low-cost power source, while at the same time providing a fun and educational way for kids to learn more about engineering, solar energy, and climate change.
2. Solar-Powered Cars: Hands-on activities that require students to think creatively and build things from scratch are a valuable way to teach about renewable energy. One example of this is building a solar-powered car using a solar panel and a motor, demonstrating how the sun’s energy can be used to power a vehicle and reduce pollution created by fossil fuel emissions.
3. Solar Cooking: Another fun way to teach about solar energy is using this natural resource to cook food. Cooking with solar energy involves using a solar oven that uses the sun’s radiation to heat food. Students can learn about how solar energy can be used for more than just energy generation, and see how it’s possible to use the sun to cook food without generating any harmful emissions.
4. Solar power Research: Students can also learn about solar energy through research. They can research solar panels, types, and what they are made of, how they work, and installation processes, along with how geographies can impact the amount of energy generated. There are a host of other areas related to solar energy that can be researched, making for undoubtedly valuable class projects and activities.
5. Field Tr ips to Solar Energy Facilities: There’s no substitute for seeing solar energy in action. Classroom discussions and textbook studies can only go so far, and taking students on a field trip to a solar energy facility offers a more practical, hands-on approach. When students get to see large solar arrays, ask questions from tech experts, and understand the practical applications of fully deployable solar projects, they can develop a deeper appreciation and knowledge of the potentials of photovoltaic panel usage.
