Developing a Web-Based Learning Environment for Building Energy Efficiency and Solar Design in Hong Kong

Abstract

With the growing importance of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies, there is an urgent need to integrate the new knowledge in these fields into our education system. The Internet and World Wide Web (WWW) can be an effective medium for the delivery of good quality education and training for these subjects, because of its flexibility, timeliness, and breadth of access. This paper investigates an approach for developing a web-based learning environment for building energy efficiency and solar design. The use of the WWW as a delivery system for educational materials and information resources is discussed. Some of the technical and pedagogical issues associated with the web-based techniques are identified. The experience from a pilot study at the University of Hong Kong is evaluated and the major considerations for the design of web-based learning are presented. It is hoped that the present study could stimulate more discussions and innovative ideas for exploiting the educational potential of the WWW for energy education. © Elsevier Science Ltd.