Galileo Teacher Training Programme
Sustaining the legacy of the International Year of Astronomy
 |
The theme of the International Year of Astronomy is ‘The Universe, Yours to Discover’. There is a wealth of astronomy-related resources available for use in the classroom that many teachers do not have the necessary training to use effectively in their curricula. Kicking-off in 2009, the Galileo Teacher Training Programme will address this issue by creating a worldwide network of certified "Galileo Ambassadors" by 2012.
Bringing astronomy into the classroom
"Galileo Ambassadors" will train "Galileo Master Teachers" in effective use and transfer of astronomy education tools and resources into classroom science curricula. The Galileo Teachers will then be equipped to disseminate these skills and techniques to other teachers. This programme will produce adaptable products and techniques so that they can be utilised in as many locations as possible worldwide, including those that have few resources available. Training will be delivered by workshops, online training tools and materials. Classroom resources will be ranked by the educational community and made available in as many forms as possible. Resources include: basic education kits, astronomy exercises, inter-disciplinary resources, desktop planetariums, and access to robotic optical and radio telescopes.
ESA involvement
ESA has a commitment to developing programmes that will inspire young people to pursue careers in science and technology, and has already produced a variety of material for use by educators and students. To complement these programmes ESA will participate in the Galileo Teacher Training Programme and hold a Teacher Training Workshop during 2009.