In Tanzania, two science teachers conducted research on the potential of astronomy to explain concepts in other sciences. This research project was part of their Bachelor of Science in Education from Mkwawa University College of Education.
The report describes a decreasing level of interest in physics at secondary school level in Tanzania. This, according to the researchers, stems from the lack of means to provide demonstrations and explanations on important concepts in physics. The study shows that astronomy can be used to elucidate physical concepts and to interest learners in physics and other sciences in general.
The researchers identified key topics in the science curriculum that relate to astronomy. In addition, they propose ways to use astronomy to explain concepts in the sciences. For example, they suggest that the model of the solar system can be used to explain the structure of the atom and the motion of the electron in orbit around the nucleus. As a result of their research, the teachers recommend that this method is incorporated in the secondary school science curriculum in Tanzania.
UNAWE-Tanzania is looking forward to using the report in their continued efforts to raise awareness of astronomy and to promote science education in Tanzania.
Image: A teacher training in Tanzania in 2012
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