Development of EduSolar: An IoT-based Learning System to Improve Understanding of Solar Energy Technology in Electrical Engineering Education

The utilisation of solar energy as an alternative energy source is on the rise, yet the comprehension of this technology among students remains constrained. The absence of interactive and real-time learning media represents a significant obstacle in the learning process. The objective of this research is to develop EduSolar, an Internet of Things (IoT)-based Solar Power Plant (PLTS) monitoring system, with the aim of enhancing students' understanding of solar energy technology in the Department of Electrical Engineering Education at Universitas Negeri Medan. The study employs the structured and systematic ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation) development method. The findings of the research indicate that EduSolar, which consists of an Arduino UNO microcontroller and various sensors, is accurate and suitable as a learning tool. It achieved a feasibility rate of 81.28% among media experts and 80.83% among content experts. Student responses indicate a feasibility rate of 78.46% and a 25% increase in understanding following the use of EduSolar. Based on these results, it is recommended that EduSolar's features be enhanced, it be integrated into the curriculum, further research be conducted on long-term impacts, and the use of solar energy be promoted through EduSolar.