Shaw-IAU Workshops by the OAE

In Guatemala, like many other countries, Astronomy contents are taught only as part of other school subjects like Science in primary level and Physics in secondary level. This conference is about my experience on developing a program for teaching Astronomy as its own subject in Secondary School and introducing it successfully in two Guatemalan private schools. We will talk about the previous research done as a way of showing administration the importance of teaching Astronomy to young students. Four years after starting this project, we can share the challenges and successful practices found along the way.

About Melissa Solares Hidalgo

Melissa Solares is a full-time astronomy teacher at the American School of Guatemala, working with students in their last two years of secondary education. She completed her bachelor's in mathematics and physics education at Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, and has eight years of experience working with young adults. Her interests include developing curriculum and programs for astronomy to be taught as it's own subject and research on the professional development for Latinamerican astronomy teachers.

Watch a recording of this talk (external link)