Space education in Estonia
- Paper number
IAC-08.E1.2.2
- Author
Mr. Silver Lätt, Tartu University, Estonia
- Coauthor
Dr. Mart Noorma, University of Tartu, Estonia
- Coauthor
Mr. Kaido Reivelt, Tartu University, Estonia
- Coauthor
Dr. Ülle Kikas, Estonian Ministry of Education, Estonia
- Coauthor
Dr. Uno Veisman, Tartu Observatory, Estonia
- Coauthor
Mr. Madis Võõras, Enterprise Estonia, Estonia
- Coauthor
Mr. Tõnis Eenmäe, Tartu University, Estonia
- Year
2008
- Abstract
Delivering effective space-related education in multiple levels of education system is a tedious and complicated task. The inherent interdisciplinary nature of the subject makes it even harder to integrate into curricula of the Estonian Education Tree from kindergarten to PhD level, from vocational education through hobby education to life long learning. Making the links between, for example in the case of teaching gravity in physics and connecting it with bone loss in astronauts and osteoporosis treatment research is a crucial element of succeeding in delivering such an diversified subject. Although many good teaching materials exist, in some cases there is a necessity to develop new materials or translate/adapt existing teaching aids to suit the needs of the teacher. This paper describes already established efforts and future strategies for Estonian space related education activities. Several cases are described which deliver space education elements in different stages of education. A clear understanding of the level of integration throughout curricula is given and links to various fields like physics, chemistry, robotics, hobby education activities, astronomy and popular science are shown. An insight into the possibilities of public engagement, through media campaigns and TV-shows, in space and space technologies related activities are also taken under consideration. Introduction of space technologies related training for private sector and governmental institutions is discussed and a preliminary evaluation of its necessity and scope is given.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
(absent)