Shaw-IAU Workshops by the OAE

This paper proposes a 'knowledge-rich' curricular approach to teach the shape of the Earth and the day/night cycle at the upper primary level, drawing from classical Indian astronomy's historical developments, arguments, and theoretical frameworks. The approach prioritises academic knowledge as central to schooling, ensures equitable access for all social groups, and fosters rational thinking in modern pluralist societies. Integrating concepts, content, and competencies cohesively overcomes the tendencies of pitting 'skills' vs. 'concepts', fragmented content delivery, and excessive focus on pedagogy over subject matter. The framework leverages episodes from classical Indian astronomy to make science education rigorous and culturally relevant.

Biography:

T. V. Venkateswaran, a science communicator and science writer, is a visiting professor at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali. His research profile includes the circulation of modern science in the premodern Tamil region, the evolution of calendars and the history of astronomy and science, colonialism and modernity in India, the evolution of science content in school textbooks, the history of science communication in the Indian cultural cosmos, mediation between science, society and media.