Unification of traditional and scientific pedagogy in Space Technology Education and Popularization (STEP): Space summer school — A case study

Abstract

In the light of current need of space exploration and development of space nation, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the impact of unified pedagogy on diverse audience to result in suitable framework for future steering of Space Technology Education and Popularization (STEP) across Pakistan. This paper also highlights deficiencies of current curriculum and emphasize the development of objective based education curriculum for technical courses. The said paper uses current curriculum, case study and control group comparative quantitative research for development of unified pedagogy for Space Technology and Education Popularization. The paper also highlights the effect of unified pedagogy on steering and thought processing ability of audiences as through standard feedback approach. Unified pedagogy using traditional lectures, webinars, hands on trainings, workshops and demonstrations is considered in this paper for making an impact on space technology knowledge among participants. The paper demonstrates the successful usage of unified pedagogy and role of subject matter experts in curriculum development. The paper also indicates training and relevance of facilitators to the field is as important as the curriculum itself. The unification of theoretical knowledge and practical implication also results in better concept creation and improves the motor learning skills. The paper presents the overall usage of unified pedagogy in development of space nation, however this is limited to a specific time frame and uses current most advanced methodologies. The analysis of the need, pedagogical methods used, development of the curriculum and trained subject matter experts as facilitators are instructive. These will provide valuable pointers for policy makers in futuristic steering of Space Technology Education and Popularization across the country. It also provides an insight to the futuristic human resource development from grass root level with sound theoretical, scientific and technical foundation to strive more.