Presentation Information
[WS16-01]Embodied Cosmology Learning Lab A Movement-Based Exploration of the 13.8-Billion-Year Story
*Rebecca-Sophia Strong1,2, John Keller2 (1. Sophia Strong Studios and Fiske Planetarium (USA), 2. University of Colorado Boulder's Fiske Planetarium (USA))
Keywords:
Innovative Education for Planetaria,Astronomy education,Future of Planetariums
Theme / Overview This workshop introduces Embodied Cosmology, a movement-based learning framework that brings the 13.8-billion-year story of the Universe into lived experience. Rather than teaching cosmology through concepts alone, the aim is to demonstrate how movement enhances understanding, retention, and engagement in science learning. Participants explore one element of the 15-part curriculum through guided movement, group practices, and conscious participation-no movement background required. The work models the planetarium as a learning environment not only for information delivery, but for inquiry, reflection, and meaning-making through movement and the body. At its core, the workshop invites participants into direct experience of the science of the Universe and Earth through movement, group process, and dialogue, supporting a deeper and more relational understanding of cosmic processes.
Body of Proposal (Workshop Description) This lively, interactive workshop introduces Embodied Cosmology as a practical methodology for teaching the Universe story through motion. Rather than teaching cosmology through ideas alone, the session demonstrates how embodied learning enhances cognition, comprehension, and engagement. Participants explore the Big Bang, galaxies in formation, the birth of our solar system, life on Earth, and photosynthesis as embodied experiences-making science personal, accessible, and alive. Designed for planetarians, educators, facilitators, and science communicators, this lab provides tools for increasing participation, accessibility, and emotional connection in learning environments. It models how movement-based inquiry complements dome programming, classrooms, and public engagement. The workshop is grounded in the phenomenology of learning, emphasizing direct experience as a primary mode of inquiry. Participants engage in group practices where understanding arises through perception and lived encounter, not concept alone. Participants leave with practical techniques and renewed engagement with the Universe-aligned with the conference theme One Earth, One Sky.
Aim / Objectives • Demonstrate how movement enhances science learning
• Offer embodied experience of cosmological processes
• Expand educational practice in planetariums
• Support curiosity, connection, and belonging
• Provide tools for embodied pedagogy
Tentative Speakers / Panelists Rebecca-Sophia Strong - Creator, Educator
John Keller — Planetarium Director, Fiske Planetarium (invited)
Requested Session Length 75 minutes (or 90, if available) Maximum Participants 40–50
Body of Proposal (Workshop Description) This lively, interactive workshop introduces Embodied Cosmology as a practical methodology for teaching the Universe story through motion. Rather than teaching cosmology through ideas alone, the session demonstrates how embodied learning enhances cognition, comprehension, and engagement. Participants explore the Big Bang, galaxies in formation, the birth of our solar system, life on Earth, and photosynthesis as embodied experiences-making science personal, accessible, and alive. Designed for planetarians, educators, facilitators, and science communicators, this lab provides tools for increasing participation, accessibility, and emotional connection in learning environments. It models how movement-based inquiry complements dome programming, classrooms, and public engagement. The workshop is grounded in the phenomenology of learning, emphasizing direct experience as a primary mode of inquiry. Participants engage in group practices where understanding arises through perception and lived encounter, not concept alone. Participants leave with practical techniques and renewed engagement with the Universe-aligned with the conference theme One Earth, One Sky.
Aim / Objectives • Demonstrate how movement enhances science learning
• Offer embodied experience of cosmological processes
• Expand educational practice in planetariums
• Support curiosity, connection, and belonging
• Provide tools for embodied pedagogy
Tentative Speakers / Panelists Rebecca-Sophia Strong - Creator, Educator
John Keller — Planetarium Director, Fiske Planetarium (invited)
Requested Session Length 75 minutes (or 90, if available) Maximum Participants 40–50