Raising Students' Awareness and Achievement in Space Science with Solar Flare Monitoring Project-Based Approach

Abstract

Research has shown a need for effective instruction in learning abstract concepts in science such as astronomical and geological phenomena. This study aimed to explore secondary students' awareness and achievement in space science during a year-long solar flare monitoring outreach program conducted by university experts and facilitators. The project-based learning activities utilized the UKM Sudden Ionospheric Disturbance π (UKM-SIDπ) kit and module to prepare students with skills that meet science and technology challenges in space science. Data were collected through an instrument that comprised 13 items on awareness of space science and 20 items on knowledge of space science. The results showed that the post-data mean scores related to students' awareness and achievement of space science were higher from the pre-data setting. Involving students in a project-based approach offers meaningful experiences that could increase their motivation to learn and pursue space science subjects or courses at the higher education level. There is a need for a more aligned curriculum structure that considers how theory connects with practice in helping students to build their conceptual understanding of space science.