Mpala, Kenya: A Summer of Teaching, Research and Learning Ishani Sud Under the supervision and guidance of Dr. Soboyejo

Purpose To introduce sustainable solar engineering solutions to two rural communities in Kenya Six weeks of effective teaching centered around solar energy Involve locals in the fabrication of solar ovens Empower locals by teaching at multiple levels

Preparation and Planning Global Science Club Food Preservation/Preparation Group Research on local materials, foods, and food preparation methods Development of prototypes Curriculum Planning Local schools chosen as vehicle for technology transfer

Teaching Logistics Julianne Davis head teacher for standards 1 and 2 (equivalent of 1 st and 2 nd grade) Ishani Sud head teacher for standards 7 and 8 (equivalent of 7 th and 8 th grade) Classes had about 25 students Taught in each class two days a week for two hours

Material Taught Most centered around the sun All Students Solar energy Conservation Renewable vs. Nonrenewable Resources Older students Relationship between the sun and the earth Specifics of how the solar oven works

Teaching Techniques Focus on understanding not memorization Creative and active approach Students engaged in hands on projects

Building the Ovens Physically built once a week Step wise instructions for students Teaching vs. Giving Design kept as simple as possible Used materials easily available in Kenya

Cultural Sensitivity As important if not more important than the actual technology Similar projects have failed Difference: spent time with the villagers Approached them as equals Paid attention to detail Adapting local recipes for cooking in a solar oven

Community Involvement Parent “fun days” Students demonstrated what they learned to the community Older students explained how solar ovens worked Demonstrations Sundial Black vs. White in the sun Crafts

Additional Projects Eco-tourism lodge Solar charged lanterns for lighting at night Solar hot water heating system Solar/manual pool pump

Future Objectives Assess impact of teaching Assess degree to which technology transfer took place Work on other projects Mpala clinic Camel vaccine refrigeration project Land rover solar powered vaccine refrigeration Eco-tourism lodge Water purification Solar powered lamps Management and training

The Experience Probably walked away with more than we gave Rich culture Amazing wildlife Understanding of the incredible potential for science and engineering solutions

Teaching Curriculum

Acknowledgements Dr. Soboyejo Laurel Harvey Mrs. Rubenstein and Dr. Rubenstein Dr. Miguel Centeno and PIIRS Jody Whitehead Dr. Bruno Bosacchi Mpala Research Centre Administration and Staff Global Science Club All students and friends who helped Julie and I prepare and plan for the trip