STEM+A@Astronomy: Engaging Science Classroom through Engineering Design and Scientific Inquiry

This is a poster presented at the 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop on Astronomy for Education, organised by the IAU Office of Astronomy for Education (OAE, https://astro4edu.org/shaw-iau/7th-shaw-iau-workshop/). Title: STEM+A@Astronomy: Engaging Science Classroom through Engineering Design and Scientific Inquiry Presenter:Exodus Chun-Long Sit (Chair of IAU-NAEC & Co-NOC Hong Kong, Starrix, Hong Kong) This session explores practical applications of astronomy education in primary classrooms, emphasizing innovative teaching strategies that actively engage students. The STEM+A@Astronomy project integrates engineering design cycles and scientific inquiry to enhance astronomical literacy and creative problem-solving skills. Through hands-on, experiential learning focused on night sky observation, space science, and planetary science, students develop curiosity and motivation. This interdisciplinary approach is adaptable beyond specialized astronomy courses, offering modular lessons that enrich primary education. By connecting astronomy to real-world contexts, STEM+A@Astronomy provides an immersive learning experience that inspires students both inside and outside the classroom. About the 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop:The 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop took place 18 - 21 November 2025. The Shaw-IAU workshops focus on astronomy education for primary and secondary school students and teacher training both in universities and in service. This year's Education focus session on Teaching with authentic data and the Science focus is on Galaxies.More details can be found on: https://astro4edu.org/shaw-iau/Keep up to date with future Shaw-IAU Workshops and other opportunities at the IAU Office of Astronomy for Education by joining our mailing list https://astro4edu.org/mailing-list/ Follow the IAU OAE on Bluesky and Facebook under @astro4edu