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This hands-on course empowers participants to integrate the magic (and science!) of solar-powered elements into their creative projects. Students will gain skills, knowledge and confidence in sustainable design, practical low voltage electronics, creative crafting and renewable energy. You will each take home your own beautiful solar-powered nightlight, plus lots of ideas for future creations!This short series of workshops is suitable for all, including beginners, hobbyists and those with a curious mind excited to explore renewable energy through creativity.
Course dates: (5 weeks) Tuesdays, 12 Nov, 19 Nov, 26 Nov, 3 Dec & 10 Dec 2024
Location: Sustainability Hub, University of Plymouth
Course times: Tuesdays, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Price Range: £175
(Please note that we will cancel the course a fortnight ahead if we don’t have sufficient numbers of participants - Participants will receive a full refund.)
Features: Live talks, personalised feedback, extensive materials, and project-based learning.
Enrolment: Open to people of all backgrounds and who enjoy crafting.
Prerequisites: None, but a passion for creativity and environmental sustainability is encouraged.
Learning Objectives:
Understand Solar Energy Basics: Learn the principles of how solar energy is captured and converted into electricity.
Circuit Design and Assembly: Gain practical skills in designing and assembling simple electronic circuits.
Sustainable Design Practices: Explore the importance of renewable energy and sustainable design.
Hands-On Project Completion: Create a functional and aesthetically pleasing solar-powered nightlight.
Creative Problem Solving: Develop troubleshooting skills and creative approaches to design challenges.
Course Structure:
The course is divided into five modules, each focusing on different aspects of incorporating solar powered elements into creative projects.
Each session will include a creative activity.
Module 1: Introduction to Solar Energy
Overview of renewable energy sources
Basics of photovoltaic (PV) cells, how they work and how they're made
Real-world applications of solar energy
Skill - soldering solar cells
Module 2: Understanding Circuits and Components
Introduction to basic electronic components (LEDs, resistors, capacitors, etc.)
How to read and create simple circuit diagrams
Safety measures when working with electronics
What can we power?
Use your solar cells to power a simple kinetic artwork
Module 3: Introducing the solar nightlight
Art and Energy examples
Our relationship with energy
Pre-mades, upcycling & designing for sustainability
Designing your house
Module 4: Making it your own
Decorating the solar nightlight (part 1)
Sharing ideas and finding solutions (part 1)
Collaboration in creativity
Module 5: Final Touches and Creative Customisation
Decorating the solar nightlight (part 2)
Sharing ideas and finding solutions (part 2)
Presenting and sharing
Course Materials:
Starter Kit will be provided: Solar art materials and up-cyclable bits and pieces. Solar house kit to build, decorate and take home. Electronics kit to use for hands on learning in class.
Tools that will be provided: Soldering iron, wire cutters, multimeter, and basic crafting supplies.
Textbooks: Reading suggestions will be shared ahead of the course
Supplementary Readings: Selected articles and case studies on sustainable creativity and environmental action planning
Additional Information:
Organisation Website: www.artandenergy.org
Discussion Forum: Access through the course website for peer interaction and support on https://BuryTheGiant.Club
Resource Center: Online repository of supplementary materials and tools for project development is available for course participants.
Summary: By the end of this course, participants will have been introduced to new skills and ideas and feel empowered having created functioning solar-powered artworks. They will have a basic foundation in renewable energy and simple electronics, inspiring further exploration and projects in sustainable technology.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
University of Plymouth, Drake Circus,Plymouth, United Kingdom
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