The Role of Astronomy in Education and ‘Public Understanding’.

Summary

Although it comes at the end of the programme, this contribution is in no sense a ‘summary’ of the meeting. It addresses some issues that were covered by earlier speakers, but is written from the individual perspective as a research astronomer working in the UK.

Astronomy and Young People

A few comments first on education in schools – this is a special worry here in the UK, where our international rankings are disappointing. An appreciation of science is vital not just for tomorrow's scientist and engineers, but for everyone who will live and work in a world even more underpinned by technology – and even more vulnerable to its failures and misapplications – than the present one. Even more important, the option of higher education in science and technology should not be foreclosed to them. There is widespread concern particularly about the 16-18 age group. Many of us put strong emphasis on broadening the curriculum for this group, which currently enforces unduly early specialisation here in England. Young people opting for humanities should not drop all science when they are 16. (I have carefully said ‘England’ rather than ‘the UK’ because the curriculum is already broader in Scotland. Scottish education has its admirers here, but few in Scotland advocate a switch to the English system!)

It is crucial that enough of the brightest young people go on to acquire some professional expertise in science and technology. They will not do so unless, when making the key decisions at age 16 or 18, they perceive a range of appealing opportunities. They will be discouraged if the courses do not inspire them.