Enhancing Astronomy Education in India: Teaching Galaxies with Authentic Data
PosterAstronomy Education Research
7th Shaw-IAU Workshop
Tuesday Nov. 18, 2025
UTC: 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. America/New_York: 4 a.m.- 5:30 a.m.
, UTC: 8 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. America/New_York: 3 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.
, Wednesday Nov. 19, 2025
UTC: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. America/New_York: 5 a.m.- 6:30 a.m.
, Thursday Nov. 20, 2025
UTC: 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. America/New_York: 1 p.m.- 2:30 p.m.
Shreesham Pandey
(Department of Physics, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India)
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Astronomy education in India, despite its historical roots, is underrepresented in primary and secondary curricula. This poster presents research on integrating authentic astronomical data, such as from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, to teach galaxy concepts, enhancing student engagement and analytical skills. A 2024 survey shows 85.9% of students are enthusiastic about astronomy, yet only 26% have telescope access. Initiatives like SPACE India’s workshops and OAE Center India’s teacher training align with the National Education Policy 2020, improving outcomes. The proposed framework leverages data-driven inquiry and cultural contextualization to address knowledge gaps.
Biography:
Shreesham Pandey is a passionate author, poet, and researcher specializing in science, technology, cosmology, environmentalism, and philosophy. Currently pursuing Physics at Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, he has served as Secretary of the Department of Physics and Vice President of the Fine Arts and Photography Society. As founder of CResCent and The Bookshelvz, Shreesham actively promotes scientific outreach and interdisciplinary learning. He is a member of Astronomers for Planet Earth, a NASA citizen scientist, and has participated in international research and education programs, inspiring curiosity and critical inquiry in young minds.
