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Peer-reviewed article

Factors Contributing to Amateur Astronomers' Involvement in Education and Public Outreach

December 1, 2012 | Public Programs

Amateur astronomers play a critical role engaging the general public in astronomy. The role of individual and club-related factors is explored using data from two surveys (Survey 1 N=1142; Survey 2 N=1242) of amateur astronomers. Analysis suggests that formal or informal training in astronomy, age, club membership, length of club membership, and participation in club service are factors that contribute to the likelihood of an amateur engaging in education and public outreach. Sex (male or female) and club service were found to influence the level of outreach amateurs engage in. Interventions designed to increase amateur involvement in education and public outreach should consider these factors.

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Victor Yocco
    Author
    Institute for Learning Innovation
  • Eric Jones
    Author
    Institute for Learning Innovation
  • Storksdieck Headshot small
    Author
    National Academy of Sciences
  • Citation

    DOI : 10.3847/AER2011040
    ISSN : 1539-1515
    Publication Name: Astronomy Education Review
    Volume: 11
    Number: 1
    Page Number: 1
    Resource Type: Research Products
    Discipline: Education and learning science | Space science
    Audience: General Public | Educators/Teachers | Museum/ISE Professionals | Scientists
    Environment Type: Public Programs | Citizen Science Programs | Community Outreach Programs

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