Secondary School Students' Knowledge and Opinions on Astrobiology Topics and Related Social Issues

Astrobiology is the study of the origin of life on Earth and the distribution of life in the Universe. Its multidisciplinary approach, social and philosophical implications, and appeal within the discipline and beyond make astrobiology a uniquely qualified subject for general science education. In this study, student knowledge and opinions on astrobiology topics were investigated. Eighty-nine students in their last year of compulsory education (age 15) completed a written questionnaire that consisted of 10 open questions on the topic of astrobiology. The results indicate that students have significant difficulties understanding the origin of life on Earth, despite exposure to the topic by way of the assigned textbooks. The students were often unaware of past or present achievements in the search for life within the Solar System and beyond, topics that are far less commonly seen in textbooks. Student questionnaire answers also indicated that students had problems in reasoning and critical thinking when asked for their opinions on issues such as the potential for life beyond Earth, the question of whether UFOs exist, or what our place is in the Universe. Astrobiology might help initiate student awareness as to current thinking on these matters and should be considered for general science educatio

The Conceptual Astronomy and Physics Education Research (CAPER) Team

An overview of the research done by the Conceptual Astronomy and Physics Education Research (CAPER) Team is presented. CAPER conducts rigorous educational research into student understanding and learning difficulties in the areas of astronomy, astrobiology, physics, planetary science, and earth & space science. The results of this research are used to inform the development, evaluation and dissemination of innovative instructional interventions and public outreach activities that promote learners’ intellectual engagement through collaborative learning strategies. Additional targeted areas of effort include conducting systematic evaluation of educational projects, exhibits and programs, providing professional development programs for elementary and secondary science teachers, conducting teaching excellence workshops for university faculty, and partnering with museums and science centers to effectively bring science to the general public. Work is primarily supported by the US National Science Foundation (NSF), NASA, and the US Department of Education