Teachers’ and Students’ Perceptions on Introduction of Astrophysics in Bhutanese Curriculum: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Astronomy education is rapidly growing because of its significant benefits to everyday life. Hence, Royal Education Council has introduced Astrophysics content for Bhutanese students in the curriculum from 2015. Royal Education Council is the highest decision-making body that initiate and implement educational reforms and school curriculum in Bhutan. Using Mixed-methods approach, this study investigated the perceptions of teachers and students on introduction of Astrophysics in Bhutanese curriculum. The study was carried out in four schools under Trashigang District from 1st March to 20th March 2020. The data were collected through survey questionnaire and structured interview. The sample comprised of 298 students (119 male and 179 female) and 11 teachers. The study found out that the teachers and students possess negative perceptions towards teaching and learning of Astrophysics. For majority of the students, the concepts of Astrophysics were found to be abstract and difficult to understand. The study also revealed that the students’ find difficult to see the real-life applications of Astrophysics concepts as well as had minimal knowledge on the relevant career opportunities in future. Some of the recommendations from the study include revisiting the content on Astrophysics to make it suitable for the learners, focus on teacher preparation and make students aware of the career opportunities.