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and only a fraction of the children are able to take advantage
of it. We need an education system which includes astronomy as part of the curriculum and imparts education through
hands-on activities. Instead of “teaching” we need to “inspire”
children into learning. Importance of Astronomy in Schools
Astronomy is an interdisciplinary science which has the ability
to stretch a child’s mind into infinite spaces and time and multiple dimensions. It can inspire children to imagine! Children
are naturally inquisitive. Astronomy can be used to fuel their
curiosity. It has an immense potential to motivate children to
learn Maths, physics, chemistry, biology – subjects that otherwise may not be of interest to them. Through science and
innovative thinking children can come up with solutions to
world problems such as malnutrition, water, sanitation.
Astrology / palm reading/ Numerology are commonplace
topics in India. I believe it is easier to change an entire generation of thinkers than to try and change the mindset of
the adult population. By including astronomy as part of the
school curriculum, we will be able to get children thinking
and question the validity of such topics for themselves. This
is probably the best way to do away with superstition and
blind belief and pave the way for science.
ICY SCIENCE | WINTER 2013- 2014