ASTRONOMY: WITH EYES ON THE TELESCOPE AND FEET ON THE SCHOOL GROUND TO OVERCOME EDUCATION FAILURES

Abstract

This report details the implementation of an interdisciplinary School Astronomy program at ECIT Advogado Nobel Vita (Coremas, Paraiba, Brazil) designed to address learning gaps, boost academic achievement, and curb dropout through active learning, theory–practice integration, and participation in science competitions. The intervention linked gravity and Newton’s laws to hands-on rocket construction and launches (MOBFOG), employed digital simulators to optimize launch angles, conducted telescope-based observations (including the 09/29/2023 Supermoon), and prepared students for the Brazilian Astronomy Olympiad (OBA). Educational outcomes indicate improved performance and engagement: consolidated term averages of 7.8 (2A), 7.5 (3A), and 6.8 (3B), with 96% average attendance and stronger participation and retention; competitively, the school earned four OBA medals (one gold, among the highest scores nationwide, and three bronze) and stood out in MOBFOG with launches reaching 140.80 m, alongside broad visibility in the state government’s official portal highlighting achievements and student mobilization. Pedagogically, the approach advanced BNCC competencies, strengthening quantitative reasoning, problem solving, critical thinking, and teamwork while connecting Physics, Mathematics, Science, and Geography to real-world contexts. We conclude that School Astronomy, structured as inquiry-based practice coupled with competitions, is a viable, inclusive, and effective strategy to enhance learning, motivate students, and consolidate a scientific culture in public high schools.