The telescope is an important astronomical learning tool.
Astronomy is the study of celestial objects, including planets, stars and comets. Learning astronomy can be a challenge, especially for kids, because it involves the study of unreachable objects. However, the development of tools such as telescopes has helped people to better understand the universe for centuries. The advances of technology have brought more sophisticated and precise telescopes, as well as other tools such as software, CD-ROMs and online games, which can help students to learn astronomy in the classroom or at home.
Telescopes
The telescope, a 17th-century invention, is among the oldest tools used to learn astronomy, according to the Galileo Project website. Students can observe magnetic activity on the sun's surface, such as sunspots and solar flares, using solar telescopes, according to Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI). Apart from showing celestial objects, telescopes can also capture electromagnetic radiation coming from space. Radio telescopes are often used to study distant celestial objects, which are difficult to observe with a conventional telescope.
CD-ROMs and Software
The use of interactive CD-ROMs with astronomical models can help students visualize the solar system, galaxies and other components of the universe. In France, the Institute of Teacher Training (IUFM), in conjunction with the Observatory of Paris, developed CD-ROMs for children in the elementary and high school levels to use during astronomy lessons, according to an article published in "Advances in Space Research." Software that allow sky mapping, such as "The SkyMap," are also effective tools to learn about astronomy, according to Physlink.com.
Games
Playing games can be an enjoyable way of learning any subject, including astronomy. NASA has developed a series of games of different skill levels for kids, available online. Playing "Astro-Matic 3000," for instance, kids can learn about the gravity differences among the solar system planets. Memory games and quizzes involving astronomy knowledge are also available.
According to the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI), older students can also learn astrology playing VAL, a second-life game environment where students remotely operate a telescope, visit a planetarium and study together in a laboratory.
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