PERC 2024 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Astronomy Education in Rural Illinois High Schools |
|---|---|
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
| Abstract: | We present findings from a preliminary study on the current landscape of astronomy curricula in rural high schools across Illinois and propose a Large Language Model astronomy assistant for instructors. Through nearly 40 interviews with science teachers, we explore how space-related subjects are integrated into physics, chemistry, and biology classrooms. We observed cases of the complete removal of astronomy mentions beyond Earth-based systems, and unique instances where standalone astronomy courses are actively embraced as introductory science for freshmen and sophomores. Due to the commonly 'self-determined' nature of rural curriculum, an instructor's exposure to astronomy prior to teaching (e.g., while acquiring college degrees, certifications, and continued education) appears to play a major role defining its presence in rural classrooms. We will compare these findings to trends observed in urban high schools, gaining insight into similarities and disparities between these educational environments. |
| Session Time: | Poster Session 2 |
| Poster Number: | B94 |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Spencer Wilken University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Urbana, IL 61801 Phone: 6183355846 |
Contributed Poster | |
| Contributed Poster: | Download the Contributed Poster |
