Community-based Engaged Learning: An Application of Renewable Energy Technology

Traditional development methods like energy generation and transportation have been the main drivers of environmental degradation since the industrial revolution. Remediating these effects with global scale efforts can disregard local environment characteristics, requiring local development strategies to define the gestalt of global climate action. However, garnering grassroots support can be difficult. Reaching a communal understanding of base scientific mechanisms starts at a young age and is difficult to develop without hands-on experiences. Community-based engaged learning (C-bEL) programs provide a platform for exposing community members to interactive experiences while providing teaching opportunities for college students. We developed a stand-alone workshop for local schools comprised of hands-on, renewable energy demonstrations adhering to the C-bEL guidelines. With the variety of activities, demonstrations, and a foundational presentation, students interacted with these new concepts and worked with renewable energy technologies. Students showed an increased understanding with concepts such as renewable energy and efficiency. Further research is being conducted to quantify the understanding of students using pre/post tests.