“Astronomy in Ghana” aims to visit various schools within three southern regions of Ghana (Greater Accra, Volta and Central Region) in order to set up school astronomy clubs. The clubs will teach astronomy through the use of talks, discussion and hands-on activities to foster practical problem-solving skills. Students will also be introduced to the diversity of possible STEM qualifications and careers.
The project will start with team preparation in the form of a 2-day training workshop for team members. During the workshop, the team will develop the astronomy curriculum and design their teaching and learning materials and practical demonstrations (including online teaching and learning materials if the lessons have to be delivered virtually).
The team will travel to the regions to visit selected schools, where an initial presentation will be given to act as a motivation to form the astronomy clubs. A teacher will be appointed as a club patron, to ensure sustainability for each club. The team will then run the clubs by delivering astronomy lessons to the club members.
A 2-day workshop for the teachers will improve and broaden their astronomy knowledge and introduce more practical teaching methods and activities, and hence boost their confidence, thus enabling them to manage the clubs in future. Motivation for teachers could be free visits for the teachers and students at least twice a year to the Ghana Radio Astronomy Observatory (GRAO). Continued support will be given through the team’s social media platforms.
At the end of the year, an inter-school quiz competition will be organized and awards will be given to the best three schools, teachers and students. An educational visit to the GRAO will be organized for the club members and patrons to inspire the students, demonstrating how the study of astronomy can lead to higher qualifications in STEM and careers at world-class science facilities or elsewhere.
Contact:
Joshua Kalognia. jkalognia@st.ug.edu.gh