What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to enhance teachers' confidence in teaching astronomy using STEAM perspectives.

February 6, 2026Open Access

Improving Teachers' Confidence in Astronomy Education in Primary Schools With STEAM Perspectives

Key Points

The aim is to enhance teachers' confidence in teaching astronomy using STEAM perspectives.
Analyzed classroom records from primary schools for STEAM elements.
Conducted discussions with teachers regarding their experiences in astronomy teaching.
Identified confidence levels in teaching astronomy among primary school teachers.
Teachers gained confidence in teaching astronomy through the integration of STEAM education principles.
Evidence suggests that primary school teachers often feel uncertain about teaching science, particularly astronomy.
Findings might reflect a similar trend in other countries beyond Japan.

Abstract

This is a poster presented at the 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop on Astronomy for Education, organised by the IAU Office of Astronomy for Education (OAE, https://astro4edu.org/shaw-iau/7th-shaw-iau-workshop/). Title: Improving Teachers' Confidence in Astronomy Education in Primary Schools With STEAM Perspectives Presenter:Akihiko Tomita (Wakayama University) STEAM education is one of the buzzwords, however, it can be found in the classic practices. To look for elements of STEAM in the reports that have not specifically focused on STEAM education, I have looked for the elements and found them in the classroom records of primary schools in various subjects. Primary school teachers are generally said to be not so confident at science class, especially in astronomy. The teachers can confidently create lessons in astronomy, which they felt weak in, with the confidence that they were already practitioners of STEAM education. The above is based on discussions with primary school teachers in the Wakayama area and is the situation in Japan. It is likely that similar situations exist in other countries, and I would like to discuss on this point. About the 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop:The 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop took place 18 - 21 November 2025. The Shaw-IAU workshops focus on astronomy education for primary and secondary school students and teacher training both in universities and in service. This year's Education focus session on Teaching with authentic data and the Science focus is on Galaxies.More details can be found on: https://astro4edu.org/shaw-iau/Keep up to date with future Shaw-IAU Workshops and other opportunities at the IAU Office of Astronomy for Education by joining our mailing list https://astro4edu.org/mailing-list/ Follow the IAU OAE on Bluesky and Facebook under @astro4edu

Improving Teachers' Confidence in Astronomy Education in Primary Schools With STEAM Perspectives

Key Points

Abstract

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