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The State of Astronomy Education in Iran: Challenges and Solutions
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Astronomy education ; Education and public outreach ; Amateur astronomy ; Innovationin astronomy communication ; Scientific literacy ; Iran
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Abstract:
Astronomy has a long history in Iran. Our ancestors were pioneered in astronomy and from ancient years was an excelled country in the construction and use of astronomical buildings. Today, there are more than 200 local astronomical societies and centers in the country that the amateur astronomy community has played a signicant and in uential role in the education and promotion of astronomy to the general public since 2000. A greater part of astronomy education was provided by amateur astronomers through outreaching events, observing nights, and education and outreach projects. Another part of it has been disseminated by science journalists who are amateur astronomers and astronomy teachers in the media and newspapers. Considering the enormous potential that has existed in the growth and development of Iranians in the field of astronomy, in the meantime, challenges such as the specific cultural and social constraints for women's activities, lack of sufficient knowledge of the teachers as well as the training required for them, the lack of a standard curriculum for teaching astronomy and network of astronomy teachers, and also economic barriers, have caused socio-economic development and education through Astronomy to grow less in Iran. This survey suggests challenges for teaching astronomy in general.