Development of dye-sensitized solar cells STEAM learning prototype for supporting educational for sustainable development

Abstract

The increase in energy consumption and demand is a problem that needs to be resolved immediately, one of the viable solutions is to develop a Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) prototype. This solar cell precursor can also be used as a prototype of STEAM Education for improving students' knowledge, skills, and motivation. Consequently, it is aimed to identify the best preparation technique for DSSC and provide recommendations for designing STEAM Education prototypes in physics learning. This is a preliminary study that employs a quantitative-qualitative descriptive research approach. Based on the results of the output voltage produced by the DSSC, which was given three kinds of immersion variations, quantitative descriptive analysis was carried out to show the type of DSSC with the best preparation technique. Based on the research data, the best preparation technique for DSSC was obtained by immersing the TiO2 layer in a dye solution for 144 hours. There is a positive correlation between the duration of immersion in the dye solution and the voltage generated in the DSSC. Furthermore, the DSSC-based STEAM Education prototype could explain the concept of photo electricity effect, electromagnetic induction, converting light energy into motion, and various other science concepts in applying physics learning. The STEAM Education approach and integrating the three pillars of Education for Sustainable Development explain how science concepts can answer sustainable energy problems related to the environment, society, and economy. This implies preparing students to be the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and abilities to carry on with long-term development plans