Enhancing astronomy literacy in Indonesia: Evaluating the impact of NASE training programs

Abstract

Astronomy education in Indonesia faces considerable challenges due to its limited inclusion in the formal curriculum and a shortage of trained educators. The Network for Astronomy School Education (NASE) has played a crucial role in addressing these gaps by organizing structured training programs for teachers. This study evaluates the impact of NASE courses conducted between 2016 and 2024, highlighting their contributions to teacher training, student engagement, and the broader development of astronomy education in Indonesia. Through posttraining questionnaires, the study assesses improvements in teachers' understanding of astronomy, pedagogical practices, and student interest. The increase in participants' confidence and the successful integration of NASE materials into classroom instruction highlights the program's effectiveness. The study also shows that student engagement increased with more students participating in science fairs and astronomy-related activities. However, participation in international follow-up activities organized by NASE and UNESCO remains limited. Encouraging greater involvement in these initiatives could strengthen Indonesia's presence in global astronomy education and provide valuable networking opportunities.