Teaching Solar Energy to Kids

Hands-on activities include feeling energy efficiency through an energy-generating bicycle, building and using simple solar ovens, designing passive solar homes, wiring solar cells and measuring solar electrical output, powering DC toys and water pumps with photovoltaics, racing solar racecars and competing with wind turbine blade designs. Lesson plans, pedagological approaches and effective messaging for youth are discussed throughout. This workshop is always a hoot and it's an excellent way to network with other energy-conscious educators.

For 2012, we are combining the fundamental workshop above with our popular Solar Suitcase Training to form one 5-day workshop culminating in building solar suitcases. This incredible program allows teachers to build small, portable standalone photovoltaic systems based on those sent to maternal health clinics in developing countries - where the electricity they provide can literally make a life-or-death difference for mothers giving birth. The whole project can then be recreated with students who learn about solar electricity, energy efficiency and selfless giving.