Daytime School Guided Visits to an Astronomical Observatory in Brazil

Abstract

This article analyzes the activity Daytime School Guided Visits at an astronomical observatory in Brazil with pupils from primary school. The adopted research methodology relied on questionnaire applications and semistructured interviews. The objectives were to identify the influences of the visits on learning of astronomical concepts and on pupils’ motivation toward science. This study showed that it is difficult for children to understand scale distances in the Solar System and beyond. In order to cope with this problem, this article highlights the relevance of science centers’ partnership with schools to achieve the goal of improving scientific education by relying on two main participants for a successful visit to a science museum: Guides and teachers. The International Year of Astronomy 2009 as declared by the United Nations UN and sponsored by United Nations Educational and Scientific Organization and the International Astronomical Union was a landmark for teaching astronomy in many countries, and many outreach educational activities were promoted around the world aimed at stimulating interest in astronomy and other sciences. The International Year of Astronomy goals included increasing public scientific awareness, supporting and improving formal and informal science education, and promoting widespread access to new knowledge and observing experiences. With these objectives in mind, the Brazilian government financed several astronomy outreach projects. This was a very important step in a developing country such as Brazil, where few people have access to quality science education. Also, as part of the International Astronomy Year, the XXVII Assembly of the International Astronomical Union took place in Brazilian territory in 2009, thanks to strong efforts of the country’s community of professional and amateur astronomers. Astronomy is a fascinating science subject partly because it enables interdisciplinary approaches and attracts students toward contemporary science. In Brazil, astronomy is part of the school curriculum, but the subject is seldom taught because most teachers do not have the opportunity to study it in their preservice courses. The few teachers who address astronomy topics rarely have enough knowledge and access to scientific tools and practices, such as astronomical observations and other practical activities. In addition, research in science education points out that teaching science only in school settings is not enough to motivate students Falk 2001; Braund and Reiss 2006. Teaching science in informal spaces like science museums can be an alternative to cope with these problems. Science museums can offer an attractive environment allowing students direct contact with instruments and scientific practices. In an astronomical observatory, it is possible to observe constellations, planets, the Sun, and other celestial objects using simple instruments. A LIVELY ELECTRONIC COMPENDIUM OF RESEARCH, NEWS, RESOURCES, AND OPINION