This paper presents a realistic generator of power quality (PQ) disturbances developed using real time—hardware in the loop (RT-HIL) technologies; the aim is to reduce the gap between the PQ mathematical theory and its practical application by improving the technical skills of students through the use of instruments in a controlled and safe laboratory environment. The implementation of this interactive teaching tool in a graduate level course has significantly enhanced the communication process between the teacher and students and thus, resulted in a highly effective teaching methodology. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 23:391–402, 2015; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21609