SAASST News

Monday, 09 November 2020 09:03

SAASST Discusses Creating Virtual Astronomy Workshops

To involve science teachers and astronomy and space sciences educators in creating and implementing virtual interactive scientific astronomy workshops, the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Science and Technology (SAASST) at the University of Sharjah has organized a workshop entitled "How to Create a Simple Virtual Astronomy Workshop" by Mr. Marwan Shwaiki, SAASST Deputy Director for the Planetarium and Space Exhibits on November 01, 04, and 08, 2020. This three-day workshop included several activities tuned to conduct virtual scientific events. This is part of SAASST's events and initiatives for the current academic year to raise public awareness of space sciences and astronomy.

They also intend to deliver scientific information in a simplified, easily digestible manner while raising awareness of this field's importance and the latest developments in the UAE Space Sector.

This following the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, and President of the University of Sharjah. His Highness founded SAASST as a national development project and research center that seeks to serve and educate society in all areas of space science. The Academy is aiming to become a world leader in space sciences and technology research while establishing the United Arab Emirates as a scientific center in the Arab Gulf region and the world.

During the workshop, Mr. Shwaiki touched on several important topics supporting the educational process in astronomy and space sciences using remote communication technologies. Those include introducing software and applications that can be used to enable students to apply theoretical concepts such as various Google tools practically, how to prepare and transform specialized programs and workshops from an idea to application, and the various tools that facilitate the teacher's virtual interactive educational process and model where the students can actively participate.