Training of Trainers in Renewable Energy for Basic Education through Active Learning Methodologies

Abstract

The education of adolescents constitutes the principal structural basis for the strengthening of society; accordingly, within the framework of university-led community service, an educational project focused on technological knowledge of renewable energy sources was developed and implemented with beneficiaries from Colegio Fiscal Modesto Carbo, with the objective of training eighth-grade students (first year of secondary education) in the use and comprehension of sustainable energy sources. As part of a training-of-trainers program, eight interactive face-to-face sessions of one and a half hours each were delivered, in addition to asynchronous activities addressing the following topics: the energy crisis in Ecuador, fossil fuels and pollution, and renewable energy technologies (solar thermal and photovoltaic energy, wind energy, tidal energy, wave energy, geothermal energy, biomass, and hydropower). The methodological approach integrated active learning, problem-based learning, and service-learning, supported by didactic prototypes, audiovisual materials, and pre- and post-assessments developed by university students. The project was aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Affordable and Clean Energy and Climate Action. The results obtained indicate a progressive 60% improvement in the understanding of renewable energy topics relative to baseline knowledge. These findings highlight that practical, active, and participatory education can strengthen knowledge and awareness of energy sustainability among adolescents