What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to teach students galaxy classification using AI concepts in a fun and engaging manner.

February 6, 2026Open Access

Exploring Galaxy Morphology Through AI and Playful Learning

MSMaura SandriIstituto di Astrofisica Spaziale e Fisica Cosmica di Bologna

Key Points

The aim is to teach students galaxy classification using AI concepts in a fun and engaging manner.
Unplugged educational activity utilizing a card game framework.
Students classify galaxies based on visual features in two groups.
Participants create and test their own classification algorithms.
The activity approximates the Hubble sequence to teach galaxy morphology.
Students gain a better understanding of galaxy morphology through hands-on learning.
Activity demonstrates the principles of AI via supervised and unsupervised learning.
Participants test algorithm consistency and generalization by exchanging and reclassifying galaxies.

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: Exploring Galaxy Morphology Through AI and Playful Learning Presenter:Maura Sandri (National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)) We present an unplugged educational activity to teach how AI works through galaxy classification. Using a card game, students simulate unsupervised and supervised learning by creating their own classification algorithms. Each card shows one or more galaxies, and students in two groups define parameters based on visual features. After classifying their cards, they exchange and classify a mixed set with the same rules, testing algorithm consistency and generalization. The classification aims to approximate the Hubble sequence, enhancing understanding of galaxy morphology. The activity introduces AI concepts in a playful way. Cards will be freely available on the Play INAF platform. 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

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