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C.A. Morrow, M.J. Zawaski (Space Science Institute)
We are developing an innovative, experiential approach to learning basic astronomical concepts. We call our approach "Kinesthetic Astronomy"; it is intended for learners in both formal and informal educational settings. We are developing a sequence of inquiry-based lesson plans that address astronomical phenomena people can readily see in the sky. These standards-based lessons are science-rich and fun. In our first lesson, called "Sky Time" students experience a series of simple body movements (e.g. rotating, revolving, tilting, bending, twisting), that gives them insight into the relationship between time and astronomical motions of Earth, (rotation about its axis, and orbit around the Sun). Students also learn about how these motions influence what we see in the sky at various times of the day and year. Other lessons are devoted to lunar motion, meteor showers, and the sky motions of the planets. Field testing with grades 6 and up suggests that kinesthetic astronomy techniques allow learners to achieve a good intuitive grasp of concepts that are much more difficult to learn in more conventional ways. The poster will report on preliminary results from our work with an at-risk high students at a special high school in Estes Park, CO. Kinesthetic astronomy lessons are fully aligned with national science education standards. Kinesthetic Astronomy is funded with support from NASA's Office of Space Science/IDEAS grant program.
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