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Monitoring and evaluating astronomy outreach programmes: Challenges and solutions
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Metadata
Title
Monitoring and evaluating astronomy outreach programmes: Challenges and solutions
Abstract
A number of tools exist to guide the monitoring and evaluation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and outreach programmes. Fewer tools exist for evaluating astronomy outreach programmes. In this paper we try to overcome this limitation by presenting a monitoring and evaluation framework developed for the International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD). The mandate of the OAD is to stimulate sustainable development at an international level and to expand astronomy education and outreach globally. The broad assumptions of this programme are that astronomy has the potential to contribute to human development by means of the transferable nature of its science discoveries, as well as its potential to activate feelings of wonderment, inspiration and awareness of the universe. As a result, the programme potentially embodies a far broader mix of outcomes than conventionally considered in STEM evaluation approaches. Towards this aim, we operationalise our
monitoring and evaluation approach by first outlining programme theories for three key OAD programmes:
a programme for universities and research, another one for schools, and one for public outreach. We then identify outcomes, indicators and measures for each one of these programmes. We conclude with suggestions for evaluating the global impact of astronomy for development.
Date
01/01/2014
Type of Publication
Author(s)
Chapman, Sarah | Catala, Laura | Mauduit, Jean-Christophe | Govender, Kevin | Louw-Potgieter, Joha
Content
Construct
Project and Resource Evaluation | Engagement > Public outreach
Methodology
Research Setting
Target Group
Institution(s)
University of Cape Town | University of Cape Town | University of Cape Town | University of Cape Town | University of Cape Town
Journal Name
South African Journal of Science
Peer-Reviewed Status
Volume
111
Issue Number
5-Jun
Resource Type
Nation(s) of Study
South Africa
Language
English