From 13 to 15 June, under the endorsement of the German Astronomical Society, a selection of 50 educators and trainers from all sixteen German federal states gathered at the EU-UNAWE national training day, "Astronomy for Kids", at the Haus Der Astronomie (House of Astronomy) in Heidelberg.
The training event gave participants an introduction to the world of astronomy, starting with the Earth, Sun and Moon system. They were shown where our lies planet in the solar system before being taken on a brief tour of the night sky in a planetarium. Later in the day the participants were entertained with an array of hands-on exercises and some evening observations at a local observatory.
Throughout the event the attendants learned how the stars formed, and all about the origin and evolution of our own Milky Way Galaxy. Child-friendly materials and models were provided to deepen their knowledge of the topics covered so they could pass on the information to their pupils. Many of the materials used throughout the programme were compiled into an “Astro box” that could be taken home for further use.
Inspired by the goals of the EU-UNAWE programme, and willing to support its delivery in as many schools and nurseries as possible, the participants committed themselves to joining the German EU-UNAWE network. In doing so they will continue to keep in touch and support each other through an exchange of materials, best practices and annual reports on their activities.
An active member of the German EU-UNAWE network and organiser of the training day, Natalie Fischer, shares her views on the event: “This week EU-UNAWE Germany made a big step forward. The German EU-UNAWE Network has now developed from an idea to a really existing team of 50 enthusiastic teachers from all over Germany and they all share the same goal: to inspire every child living here with the wonders of the universe. We are very, very happy about it!”
Share:
