Shaw-IAU Workshops by the OAE

Currently, many robotic telescope projects require prior astronomy knowledge and scientific skills. These investigations appeal mainly to older students. Reaching younger audiences requires a different approach. One technique is to introduce remote observing and astronomy through interactive challenges and character-based narrative. Journeying through missions with clear goals and simple follow-up investigations makes observing accessible to new audiences. Incorporating many materials - such as videos, workshops and games - can create a cohesive, simple and fun environment for learning. In this talk I will discuss the practical elements of this approach, using our project “Serol’s Cosmic Explorers” as a case study.

About Alice Hopkinson

Alice Hopkinson works on the Education team at Las Cumbres Observatory. In 2017, she graduated from Durham University with a Physics and Astronomy degree. Since then she has worked in physics education and outreach roles at Cardiff University and Las Cumbres Observatory. She also has an interest in art and animation, and as part of her current role regularly works on graphic design and animated videos for astronomy education purposes.

Watch a recording of this talk (external link)