The Life and Death of a Solar Energy Course - Lessons in Challenge Based Learning
Abstract
This paper presents the experiences of developing and executing a graduate solar energy engineering course designed around challenge based learning (CBL). The course structure is presented and mapped to CBL principles, followed by an assessment of student outcomes and lessons learned by the instructors. The course has increased in popularity and feedback from students suggest the CBL format is a large reason. Graduated students also see the value of CBL in their careers, beyond traditional engineering training. The CBL approach is recommended for course instructors working with complex energy systems, particularly in prosumer situations, where relationships between technological, economic, and social aspects are present.