Solar Thermal Training Systems

In this section we will cover solar thermal training systems, the technology and how it differs from the more common technology of solar photovoltaics.

We will also look at reasons for teaching solar thermal technology and the best practices, including how to search and find the best solar thermal training systems.

What is a Solar Thermal Training System?

A solar thermal training system is an “educational tool” or “instructional technology” which is used to teach students in a hands-on manner about the certain technology used to harvest solar energy.

These training systems normally replicate industrial systems in a smaller format, including hardware, sensors, software tools and educational content such as curriculum, teacher materials, student exercises etc.

Solar thermal training systems are mostly used in high schools, community colleges, TVET colleges, polytechnics, universities, and in corporate and vocational training centers.

Solar Thermal vs. Solar Photovoltaic (PV)

There are differences between Solar Thermal and Solar Photovoltaic technology, below a table to summarize the main points in residential applications. See this other product category for solar pv training equipment.

Why teach Solar Thermal Technology?

Solar thermal technology in some applications (residential) can have various benefits when compared to solar photovoltaic technology. Therefore, it becomes more and more important for HVAC technicians, electricians, plumbers, construction workers, and renewable energy installers, to learn about solar thermal technology.

Best practice of teaching Solar Thermal Technology

When teaching a technical subject there are many reasons why one should consider using hands-on equipment or instructional technology to make the learning experience better for the students.

There are various widely recognized benefits of hands-on training, namely:

• Content retainment: course materials are proven to stick much longer when what is learn has also been applied to practical problem solving.
• Increased engagement: students who learn in a practical environment pay better attention, are more engaged and willing to learn.
• Critical thinking: since students need to solve problems and trouble shoot physical systems, they will have to understand the intricate workings, as well as make decisions about what to do next.
• Real world experience: getting mentored and taught by a professional who has experience of working within a specific industry gives the students real world experience and prepares them for the work environment.
• Workplace safety: most workplace accidents stem from improper use of machines and equipment, which is why it’s very important to teach students to safely handle technology before entering the workforce.

How to buy a Solar Thermal Training System

In order to find the best type of instructional technology or training system for your specific classroom or training center there are various questions to ask oneself.

Initially its important to make a training needs analysis anaswering questions such as for which jobs are we training people? What skills are necessary? What do students need to learn? At what standards do they need to know their stuff? How do we translate this into curriculum and instructional technology?

We have a longer blog post on this topic, how to search and evaluate training systems.

Edquip was created to help teachers, educators, trainers, professors and administrators, to save time and money while searching for technical training equipment, just follow the below points;

1. Search and find leading training products by categories (use filters to narrow down your search)  
2. Compare different products to each other (add products to comparison and visit comparison page)
3. Request quotations straight from the producer (we don’t share your contact details until you approved)

See our one minute short video about how to use Edquip.