Discovering New Variable Stars at Key Stage 3

TL;DR

This paper describes a pilot program where secondary school students in Key Stage 3 participated in real astronomical research, leading to the discovery of new variable stars and engagement with professional scientific practices.

Contribution

It introduces a novel educational approach that involves students in actual research activities, resulting in the discovery of new variable stars and fostering early scientific engagement.

Findings

Students successfully discovered new variable stars.

Participants gained research-level skills and experience.

The program integrated education with real scientific discovery.

Abstract

Details of the London pilot of the `Discovery Project' are presented, where university-based astronomers were given the chance to pass on some real and applied knowledge of astronomy to a group of selected secondary school pupils. It was aimed at students in Key Stage 3 of their education, allowing them to be involved in real astronomical research at an early stage of their education, the chance to become the official discoverer of a new variable star, and to be listed in the International Variable Star Index database, all while learning and practising research-level skills. Future plans are discussed.