Enhancing the Competency of Air Conditioning Professionals through Self-Directed Learning (SDL)

This article aims at developing a training set to enhance the competency of air conditioning professionals with self-directed learning and evaluating the competencies of air conditioner professionals after learning. It is conceived to enhance learners' competencies including 1) air conditioner installation, 2) air conditioner electric system installation, and 3) verification and maintenance. Moreover, the evaluation was carried out based on qualities and skills during practice which include technician habits, refrigerant conduit installation, electric wiring conduit installation, leak detection and system evacuating, electric circuit installation, system closing, cleaning and checking before delivery, and operation duration. The result of the quality evaluation from the experts indicates that the model can efficiently enhance students' competencies according to their needs and potential. The result from the competency evaluation of the students after self-directed learning sessions shows that the average score is more than 75%. Overall, the model of self-directed learning framework can be applied to enhance specific knowledge, practical skills of the students. In addition, it encourages the students to enjoy searching for information and learning in accordance with their interest, and this will finally lead to lifelong learning.