Astronomy from the Ground Up!
Workshop for Science Teachers, Parkes Observatory
3 - 5 May 2013
*** Please note that this workshop is now full. No further registrations will be accepted .***
Science Teachers, this is your opportunity to develop your knowledge of how to teach astronomy in an exciting and engaging manner. Over three days in the shadow an icon of Australian science, the Parkes radio telescope, you will have the chance to enhance your confidence and skills in the astronomical concepts required to teach junior high school science. No background or training in astronomy is required for participation in this workshop.
Topics
The workshop sessions will cover a range of topics on astronomical objects and techniques. We focus on the role of Australian astronomers and facilities to provide you with relevant examples to use with your students. Examples of current research and background information on key aspects of astronomy will enhance your confidence in teaching the subject effectively. With the Transit of Venus and a total solar eclipse both visible from Australia in 2012 this is a great opportunity to learn how to incoprporate these events in your teaching program.
Activities
Workshop sessions will be varied and provide you with opportunities to:
- trial "hands-on" activities you can take back to the classroom
- incorporate the latest research in astronomy education in your teaching
- meet and listen to Australian astronomers and talk with them about their work and the cosmos
- tour the Parkes radio telescope and learn how it works
- learn how to run a viewing night for your students and find your way around the night sky using the unaided eye and small optical telescopes (weather permitting)
- use powerful visualisation and other free software tools and learn how to incorporate them in your classes
- take home a range of useful and practical resources and ideas that you can use with your students.
The 2013 workshop will also be part of the Galileo Teacher Training Program, one of the international cornerstone legacy projects for the 2009 International Year of Astronomy.
The workshop will be presented by experienced astronomers and astronomy educators. Most importantly, as it is a residential workshop away from the daily stresses of school you will have ample opportunity to network with colleagues and talk with astronomers and engineers whilst enjoying stimulating activities and fine food!
Venue and Dates
The workshop will be held at the Parkes Observatory, approximately 26 km from Parkes in central NSW. It starts at about 10.00 am on Friday 3 May and finishes around 1.00 pm on Sunday 5 May. Workshop lectures and activities will be held at the Visitors Centre and at the Astronomers Lodge.
Cost
The GST inclusive cost for the three days is $440 which includes workshop activities, all meals from morning tea on the Friday to lunch on the Sunday (other than breakfasts) and a resource pack of materials from the workshop. Sessions include some night activities so dinners are included.
Note that the workshop fee does not include accommodation. Payment details will be provided on receipt of a booking request and can be by cheque, direct bank deposit, MasterCard or Visa.
Cancellation after payment one week or more before the workshop will incur a $50 fee. Refunds for cancellation closer to the workshop is at the discretion of the workshop organiser and not guaranteed although another teacher from the same school can substitute at no penalty.
Program
The program for the 2013 workshop is yet to be finalised however the workshop program for 2011 gives an indication of what may be covered. The final program will depend upon availability of speakers and who is likely to be observing at the telescope during that time.
Comments from Participants
- "10/10 - Thoroughly well prepared & presented. I enjoyed it all!"
- "Best I've been to, well-paced, fun, useful and well fed."
- "I really appreciated the calibre of the speakers, the interaction with other teachers and all the practical activities."
- "My confidence in teaching astronomy in the classroom has been reinforced, both in junior and senior science. To be able to talk to students about current research is definitely a benefit."
- "Excellent - it would rate 11 on a scale of 1 to 10! Well done."
Accommodation & Travel
Parkes provides a range of accommodation options to suit a range of budgets. More details can be found through the Parkes guide to accommodation here. Participants must make their own accommodation arrangements and bookings. We are unable to provide onsite accommodation for workshop participants.
Parkes is about a five hour drive from Sydney. Rex Airlines has regular flights between Sydney and Parkes. Bus and train schedules can be found on the CountryLink website.
Eligibility
Whilst targeting the needs of teachers of Stage 4 and 5 Science from NSW, the topics covered are applicable to teachers from across Australia and overseas and suitable for those teaching Primary and HSc-lvel sciences too. No expertise is required. All interested teachers are encouraged to apply. Places, however, are limited so you should register early.
Booking
To register your interest and reserve a place at the workshop, please download a printed registration form (PDF or Word doc) and email it to: robert.hollow@csiro.au. or fax or mail it back to the number and address on the form.
Enquiries
Should you wish to know more about the workshop please contact:
Robert Hollow
Education Officer
CSIRO Australia Telescope National Facility
phone 02 9372 4247
fax 02 9372 4444
Email: Robert.Hollow@csiro.au