Astronomy focused engineering learning paradigm for different resource contexts

Abstract

It is important to increase the number of young persons in technology-oriented careers and disciplines. This is also applicable to the domain of astronomy and space sciences. The existing approach to realizing the intended student stimulation targets young high school leavers and is organized by science voluntary organizations. Such an approach does not consider targeting individuals who are at the point of becoming future engineers. An example of individuals in this group are students in Electrical, Electronic, and Computer Engineering. The existing approach does not stimulate the interests of undergraduate and postgraduate students in astronomy and space sciences. The presented research recognizes that the Electrical, Electronic, and Computer Engineering discipline holds significant content that can be aligned to stimulate student interest in astronomy and space sciences. However, an approach that integrates this multi-disciplinary perspective is required. This research describes an astronomy-themed engineering curriculum for Electrical, Electronics, and Computer Engineering students (undergraduate and postgraduate). It also describes the details of the proposed curriculum and identifies integration points.