Description
Over the past twelve years, my journey as an international high school teacher specializing in A-Level Physics and Astronomy has been dedicated to advancing astronomy education and fostering student excellence in Malaysia, Thailand and beyond. In 2013, I initiated Malaysia’s participation in the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA), laying the groundwork for sustained national involvement in this prestigious competition. Since then, I have trained over 50 outstanding students from diverse schools in advanced astronomy and astrophysics, leading the Malaysian team to achieve 6 bronze medals and 6 honorable mentions.
As the founder and leading teacher of a few astronomy clubs that engaged over 500 students, I sparked widespread interest in the universe.
My rigorous training programs emphasize theoretical lessons, and problem-solving, preparing students for practical telescope operation and observations skills. As a Planetarium Manager at an international school, I managed interesting planetarium shows and delivered interactive sessions, inspiring students and the public through STEM outreach initiatives.
This presentation will share my journey in building a competitive astronomy education framework, addressing challenges like resource constraints and cultural perceptions of science. These insights align with K-12 Astro Asia’s mission to unite Asian educators in sharing innovative practices and regional perspectives. I will discuss strategies for engaging students in astronomy and fostering international collaboration, drawing parallels with Thailand’s advancements in astronomy education.
