What is it about?
In this article, we describe how we used two modern methodologies, problem-based learning (PBL) and design thinking, to teach renewable energy to engineering students at a Colombian university. What we did was to confront students with real problems faced by communities in need of energy solutions, and we guided them to research, propose, and design viable ideas themselves. Rather than just learning theory, the students worked in teams, connected with the reality of many people in the country, and developed key skills for their professional future. This experience showed us that when teaching is practical and human-centred, learning is better and more engaging.
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Why is it important?
This research is important because it proposes a different and effective way of training engineers who can respond to the real challenges of the energy transition. What makes it unique is that it does not remain theoretical: it connects the classroom with communities facing specific energy access needs and puts students to work on real solutions from the early stages of their training. Furthermore, by using methodologies such as PBL and Design Thinking, it breaks with traditional teaching methods and promotes active, collaborative learning with social impact. The focus on local contexts, especially in vulnerable regions, gives it added value that transforms not only the way of teaching, but also the way of thinking about engineering as a tool for change.
Perspectives
Writing this was a very rewarding experience because it allowed us to rethink how we prepare future engineers for real-world challenges. Seeing our students interact directly with communities, propose solutions, and gain confidence reminded me why I became an educator in the first place. This project was not just about teaching about renewable energy, but about creating a space where creativity, empathy, and technical knowledge converged with a purpose. I hope this article inspires other educators to take similar risks in the classroom, because when students work on real problems that matter, their learning becomes much more powerful, as does their impact.
Dr. Ramon Fernando Colmenares Quintero
Fundación Berstic and Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Problem based learning and design thinking methodologies for teaching renewable energy in engineering programs: Implementation in a Colombian university context, Cogent Engineering, January 2023, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1080/23311916.2022.2164442.
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