INTEGRATING SOLAR ENERGY EXPERIMENTS INTO STEM EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Keywords:
solar energy education, STEM learning, photovoltaics, renewable energy, experimental learning, sustainabilityAbstract
This article presents a STEM-based educational model focused on the utilization of solar energy through experimental and inquiry-based learning. The model integrates the theoretical foundations of photovoltaic and solar thermal systems with hands-on experimental activities. This approach enables students to investigate key factors influencing solar energy efficiency, including light intensity, temperature, material composition, and panel orientation. The transition toward sustainable energy systems is one of the most pressing challenges of the twenty-first century. Solar energy, as a renewable and widely accessible resource, plays a crucial role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change. Higher education institutions have a strategic responsibility to prepare future professionals capable of understanding, applying, and advancing solar technologies. Through structured experiments and interdisciplinary learning, students develop scientific, technological, and analytical competencies while gaining a deeper understanding of sustainable energy solutions. The findings highlight the educational value of experimental STEM environments in fostering environmental awareness, problem-solving skills, and readiness for sustainable innovation.
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