Power Electronics: Enhancing Understanding and Design Skills

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of the course design and its alignment with the course learning outcomes in the field of power electronics at School of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Malaysia. The study focuses on the content, teaching strategies, and assessments employed in the course and examines their effectiveness in facilitating student learning and achievement. The course design encompasses three main learning outcomes: analyzing power switching devices, examining power electronics converters, and designing power electronic converters. The content includes topics such as power semiconductor devices, rectifiers, voltage controllers, DC choppers, and inverters. Blended learning, lectures, and tutorials are the primary teaching strategies utilized, while assessments comprise tests, assignments, and surveys. The analysis of entrance and exit surveys demonstrates significant improvements in students' performance and confidence. The results indicate that the teaching strategies effectively fostered knowledge acquisition and competency development. Additionally, the course aligns with the Ministry of Higher Education learning outcomes, addressing cognitive skills, numeracy skills, and critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The findings highlight the successful implementation of the course design and teaching strategies, emphasizing their impact on student learning and skill development in power electronics. This study contributes to the continuous enhancement of power electronics education and provides valuable insights for educators in designing and delivering effective courses in the field.