Abstract

As a case study for developing countries aiming at improving science and Astronomy school education, we compare the Philippine and Japanese school science curricula. The Philippines recently changed its national curriculum with a view of strengthening science education. Japan, on the other hand, already has a reputable national curriculum and continues to be one of the outstanding countries in science education. Likewise, higher education and informal Astronomy education of the two countries were reviewed for similarities and differences. The Philippine and Japanese National Curriculum Standards and government approved science books were used in the analysis of their respective Astronomy learning competencies. The findings show that the Astronomy-related topics in both countries are almost the same, but Filipino students have more time and exposure to Astronomy concepts compared to Japanese students. On the other hand, Japan is rich in student research presentation in high school. Japan offers more opportunities and facilities to students who would like to pursue both Astronomy education and research. It seems that these backgrounds are the basis for richer Astronomy research environment in Japan.

Highlights

  • The study of the sky and celestial objects is, one of the oldest fields of science (e.g., IAU, 2019a)

  • Most of the Astronomy topics are included in the Earth Science subjects but there are topics included in the Physics subject

  • The Philippines changed the curriculum by adding more years of mandatory basic education, aiming to strengthen science education

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Summary

Introduction

The study of the sky and celestial objects is, one of the oldest fields of science (e.g., IAU, 2019a). Universities in all areas in Japan offer Astronomy courses to students. One of the significant changes in the science curriculum is the distribution and spiraling of Astronomy topics from elementary school to senior high school. This paper compares the science curriculum of the Philippines and with that of Japan to present the discussion points for development of science education in the Philippines. This case study can be useful to other developing countries aiming at improving science and Astronomy school education. Comparison of Astronomy school education curricula between Philippines and Japan present out-of-school Astronomy education which is an important side of Astronomy education environment.

Philippine Educational System
Japanese Educational System
Objectives and Features of Science Curriculum
Science Curriculum Content
Astronomy-related topics in Elementary School
Astronomy-related topics in Junior High School
Astronomy-related topics in Senior High School
Astronomy Research in Senior High School
Astronomy Education in Higher Education
Informal Astronomy Education
Conclusions

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