Presentation Information
[PO1-11]Developing astronomy introduction for various audiences in planetariums
*Juraj Kubica1, Ľubomíra Hujsová1 (1. Slovak Planetariums (Slovakia))
Keywords:
astronomy introduction,curricula development,modular content
Planetariums and observatories serve as crucial educational hubs, welcoming highly diverse audiences ranging from elementary school groups to adult enthusiasts and specialized student cohorts. The challenge of delivering a universally engaging and pedagogically effective astronomy introduction is often unmet by standardized, one-size-fits-all presentations, leading to varied comprehension and engagement levels. This poster details the initiative undertaken by the Slovak Association of Planetariums to develop a modular, adaptable framework for introductory astronomy talks designed to maximize relevance and impact across different visitor demographics. The methodology involved a comprehensive analysis of visitor profiles and existing presentation practices across Slovak planetariums, followed by the systematic development and iterative testing of content modules. These modules focus on core astronomical concepts—such as apparent celestial motion, scale of the Solar System, and basic celestial coordinates—with scripts explicitly tailored in terms of language complexity, depth of scientific detail, and engagement techniques suitable for distinct groups (e.g., primary and secondary education, general public). The resulting framework provides planetarium educators with a flexible toolkit that allows for real-time adjustments based on the audience's needs and prior knowledge. Preliminary evaluation indicates that the audience-specific approach significantly improves both the retention of key concepts and overall visitor satisfaction, establishing a practical, scalable model for enhancing astronomical education in dome environments.