DEVELOPING A NEW COURSE ON WIND POWER SYSTEMS WITH AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

Abstract

Harvesting wind energy is the cleanest energyconversion process. Europe, particularly Denmark, haspioneered the exploitation of vast wind resources. Laggingin development, the United States has also vast windresources with a significant promise in diversifying energyproduction. On a regional level, New York State has alsoambitious goals for utilizing renewable energy. The risingdemand for renewable energy solutions requires aneducated workforce. Sponsored by NYSERDA, a RegionalPartnership was formed to prepare the future workforce inclean energy technologies, and “wind power systems” is oneof the courses developed. The innovative approach wascreating a framework that allows delivering the content to avariety of audiences. It is structured in hyperlinked modulesallowing customization in schedule and content so theinstructor could teach regular, non-traditional, and onlinestudents, practicing professionals and technicians. Aqualitative assessment tool was administered measuring theeffect of the approach in student engagement.