Shaw-IAU Workshops by the OAE

Herein, I discuss results of the first astronomical science writing contest for high-school students worldwide. The contest was hosted by The Galactic Inquirer – a free online journal on diverse topics in astronomy and space exploration. Our partners included the American Astronomical Society – America’s largest organization of astronomers, the IAU’s Office of Astronomy for Education, the Slooh remote telescopes service, and volunteers from the Gloucester Area Astronomy Club. The key result is that everything worked – albeit on a small scale. To scale-up the program, it will be necessary to develop more robust mechanisms for widespread promotions, greater numbers of qualified reviewers, more prizes, and the funding to support these efforts. All input in these regards is most welcome.

Biography:

William H. Waller (Bill) is an astronomer, science educator and communicator based in Rockport, Massachusetts. His research focus is exploring the causes and consequences of starburst activity in nearby galaxies. He has worked with NASA on several space science research missions and educational outreach programs. Bill is an author of multiple books on astronomy, co-founder and co-editor of The Galactic Inquirer online journal, and producer of Doc Waller's Earth & Space Reports video series. He currently serves as one of five National Astronomy Education Coordinators representing the United States for the International Astronomical Union's Office of Astronomy for Education.