The purpose of the workshop is to build or renew partnerships, exchange ideas and information, and begin the planning process of visiting the classroom. Astronomers are trained that the teacher is in charge of the classroom. Teachers are taught that the visiting astronomer may be very nervous, but has wonderful information to share and a passion for the sky to instill in the students. Working together, the astronomer, the students, and the teacher will all benefit from this experience. Indeed, students look forward to the next visit by 'their' astronomer.
Astronomers commit to visiting the classroom at least four times during the school year.
These visits will include presentations, demonstrations, indoor and outdoor activities, and whatever else the partnership of teacher and astronomer decide. Teachers agree to prepare the classroom, assist as needed, and maintain control while the astronomer does his or her best to share a little of their love for astronomy with a group of students in an environment with which they are probably completely unfamiliar. ASP's handbook, The Universe at Your Fingertips, was put together for Project Astro. I'm sure many of you are familiar with this huge collection of classroom activities, whether or not you knew they were associated with Project Astro. The first visits are stressful, nerve-racking, and rocky at best.