Wind Energy - Fundamentals

Join us for this wind-focused, day-long virtual workshop to explore the science of wind power!

During this virtual workshop, educators will learn the foundations of wind power including the science and technology of wind turbines and blade design. We will also introduce activities for the classroom that engage students in dynamic, hands-on energy-based learning.

This workshop has self guided and in-person components.

Before Workshop - Wind 101 Webinar - (1 Hour)

This Informative presentation introduces wind energy foundational concepts and explores the basic science and technology behind modern wind power

In - Person - Using Classroom Windmills & Turbines (2 Hours)

Understand the basics of modern wind turbine design by trying your hand at the MacGyver Wind Power Challenge! Build a basic windmill to demonstrate how a windmill captures the energy of the wind and transforms it into usable mechanical energy.

Construct a simple classroom wind turbine and use a variety of materials to design blades that optimize the power output of a model wind turbine. Participants will isolate one variable of wind turbine blade design, then collect and share data for that variable. We will also spend time learning how to measure electrical output and how to design optimal blades for model turbines.

After Workshop - Collecting Data & Sharing (1-2 Hours)

You will be asked to collect some data about your wind energy projects and post them to our Online Challenge spaces. You will also learn how to set up your own KidWind account to set up Challenge Spaces for your students.

Registration for this workshop is $150 and includes a delivery of a box of materials we will explore during the workshop. You will receive a certificate of completion for 4 clock hours at the end of this training.

Some things to know:

  • This workshop and the materials used are geared towards middle school and high school teachers.
  • No prior knowledge of wind energy is required.
  • You will need a stable internet connection and dedicated space in which to work.
  • We will ship you a box of material 4-7 days before the workshop.
  • Preservice and retired teachers are welcome!