Development and Testing of Grid-Tied Solar Power System Trainer

Abstract

The quality of education has lasting effects on individual students. Experts have developed research-based solutions to support teachers in implementing the most successful teaching and learning strategies and best practices. Theories and principles are not sufficient for students to improve and further develop their technical skills. The shortage of learning equipment set off hurdle to the learners' hands-on practice. This developmental study was intended to design and fabricate a grid-tied solar power system trainer and to define the level of performance of the students utilizing the said trainer. The research was piloted at Pangasinan State University – Lingayen Campus particularly at the College of Technology in the First Semester of Academic Year 2017-2018. The researcher made use of the developmental type of research and followed some procedures in the assembly of the trainer. This study also utilized another method of research, specifically experimental design, wherein it determines the performance rating of the students using the mock-up trainer. The questionnaire and qualitative interview were done in the compilation of data related to the design and fabrication of the trainer. The researcher had chosen the College of Technology faculty members teaching Electrical, Electronics, and Mechanical Technology which composed of ten (10) which served as technical experts to validate the design and fabrication of the trainer. All the seventy-six (76) Fourth-year Bachelor of Industrial Technology major in Electrical, Electronics, and Mechanical Technology students underwent the pre-test and post-test to define the performance level of the students by utilizing the said trainer. Based on the outcome of the analysis utilizing the trainer, it was noticed that the student performance level was improved. It was also concluded that the trainer was an effectual and essential tool for teaching in Building Wiring Installation and Electrical and Electronics Circuits, an elective subject for Bachelor of Industrial Technology major in Electrical, Electronics, and Mechanical Technology. This could, therefore, strengthen the skills of students and improve the standard of teaching, particularly in the laboratory workshop setting.