EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF CIRCULAR SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS ON THE STUDENT LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: A CASE STUDY OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Aims: This study aims to explore the impact of circular solar energy systems on the student learning environment in public schools. Specifically, it seeks to assess how these energy systems influence various factors such as classroom comfort, student engagement, academic performance, and teacher effectiveness. Study design: A quantitative, descriptive-correlational research design was used for this study. The research focused on collecting data through a survey administered to 100 student respondents from selected public schools that have implemented circular solar energy systems for at least one academic year. The survey was designed to measure the extent of solar energy system integration and its effects on the student learning environment. Methodology: The study used a structured questionnaire divided into two sections: the first section assessed the level of implementation of circular solar energy systems, covering aspects like energy efficiency, cost savings, sustainability, technology integration, and renewable energy output. The second section evaluated the student learning environment, considering classroom comfort, student engagement, teacher effectiveness, health and well-being, and academic performance. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and regression analysis to examine the relationships between the implementation of solar energy systems and improvements in the learning environment. Results: The results indicated that the implementation of circular solar energy systems was rated positively, with the highest ratings given to energy efficiency and renewable energy output. The student learning environment also received favorable ratings, especially in terms of academic performance. A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.479, p = 0.000) was found between the level of solar energy system integration and improvements in the student learning environment, suggesting that the better the implementation of these systems, the more conducive the learning environment became. Conclusion: The study concluded that the integration of circular solar energy systems significantly improves the student learning environment, enhancing energy efficiency, classroom comfort, and academic outcomes. These findings highlight the importance of renewable energy technologies in public schools as a means of creating more sustainable and supportive educational environments. The study recommends further investments in solar energy systems to maximize their benefits for student learning and overall school operations.