Astronomy Education in India - An Opinion Paper

Abstract

The important role played by astronomy in the development of physics and mathematics from time to time and recently in influencing new directions of research in chemistry and biology cannot be over-emphasized. When interdisciplinary subjects are in vogue today in the education circle, it is disirable that this relationship between astronomy and other subjects be appropriately projected to science students. Unfortunately, in the education planning in India, astronomy has been relegated to a position of secondary importance. With so many centres of astronomy active in the country today and also the new exciting possibilities being thrown open by fast progress in space and electronics technology, the need of astronomy education has become acute. The paper addresses itself to this problem and suggests a solution. After identifying the basic elements necessary for a viable career in astronomy, it works out in detail a way in which these elements could be introduced into the already existing high school, B.Sc. and M. Sc (Physics) curricula. A separate degree course in astronomy is not recommended. The need of support to amateur astronomy is also brought up. In the end, the authors request readers for comments