LEARNING ABOUT COMPLEX ASTRONOMY CONCEPTS -- SEASONS -- USING A SPATIAL CURRICULUM

Abstract

The current research is focused on the teaching students about a complex astronomy concept of seasons. This study included the development and implementation of a methodical (step by step) spatial curriculum for 6-12 grade students that requires minimum material and is easy to implement. The curriculum uses spatial components like 2D and 3D drawings, videos, and simulation. The aim of this study was to implement a spatial curriculum and measure its impact on students’ spatial thinking, reasoning, and conceptual understanding about seasons. The students participated in spatial activities, writing answers and group discussion throughout this curriculum. The present study took place in a 6th grade, STEM classroom and gathered data in the form of written and verbal answers given by students. The results demonstrated that the activities had a positive impact on students’ conceptual understating about seasons. The study also showed link between students’ spatial thinking and reasoning and conceptual understanding. Students who demonstrated a correct diagram of season with all the labels and necessary spatial component showed a correct conceptual understanding about seasons. Interactive simulation demonstrated significant impact on learning about tilt and its relation to the concept of seasons. Students enjoyed participating in creating drawings and diagrams. Students also demonstrated positive experience towards using spatial activities as learning tool for astronomy.