ENERBLOX: SUPPORTING HOME ENERGY LITERACY THROUGH A GAMIFIED PLATFORM FOR CHILDREN AGED 9-12

<p dir="ltr">This thesis presents Enerblox, a hybrid educational platform designed to support home energy literacy among children aged 9 to 12. As residential energy systems become more decentralized and complex, understanding how energy is generated, consumed, and managed within the home is increasingly important, especially for younger users. While Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS) offer tools for monitoring and optimizing household energy use and therefore a case study for home energy literacy, they are often designed for adults and remain inaccessible to children. This thesis investigates how foundational HEMS concepts can be introduced to children through a blended learning experience that combines digital simulation with hands-on interaction. Using a design-led, mixed-methods research process, including a small sample of surveys with parents and children, interviews with educators, and usability testing, the study identifies key barriers and opportunities in current home energy literacy practices. The resulting prototype, Enerblox, is a digital platform that engages learners through scenario-based quizzes, interactive feedback, and modular physical components. Findings suggest that the platform could improve conceptual understanding, motivation, and engagement with household energy topics. This research demonstrates how design interventions can make complex energy systems more intuitive and accessible, contributing to broader goals of energy awareness and sustainability in both home and school contexts.</p>