Transforming STEM Pedagogy through Observation-Driven Learning: An Astronomy Case Study

Abstract

Transforming STEM pedagogy from theoretical education to substantive learning continues to pose a problem, especially in underfunded institutions. This study looks at a hands-on learning method used in an astronomy curriculum to address poor understanding and low student interest in STEM subjects. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of direct celestial observation in enhancing STEM understanding. A descriptive pre–post approach was utilized, employing structured questionnaires delivered before to and during a university-school outreach intervention that included guided telescope viewing and incorporated STEM activities. The data were analyzed utilizing frequency and percentage metrics. The results demonstrate significant enhancements in students' comprehension of STEM subjects after engaging in the program, implying the potential efficacy of observation-based learning in a rural educational setting. The research finds that observation-based astronomy education is an excellent teaching technique for improving STEM education in rural and resource-constrained environments.