Elaina Hyde, an associate professor in the Faculty of Science and director of the Allan I. Carswell Observatory (AICO), is training the next generation of cosmic explorers.
A new online and in-class initiative, Stellar Scholars, introduces astronomy and space science to students in grades 7 to 10 with a focus on reaching underrepresented communities facing barriers to high-quality STEM education.
Collaborating with York’s Cross Campus Capstone Classroom (C4), including C4 funding and resources, Hyde developed Stellar Scholars while on sabbatical this year to directly address inequalities in science education. According to Hyde, many young learners – especially those from underserved populations – have limited opportunities for high-quality science learning due to scarce resources, outdated materials or minimal engagement with real-world scientific institutions.
This can affect learning outcomes and a young student's ability to envision future STEM pathways. Stellar Scholars provides hands-on astronomy experiences and real scientific data, offering opportunities to learners who might otherwise miss out on advanced STEM education.
“We want to awaken curiosity and support students in discovering the universe’s mysteries, using tools that make astronomy engaging and easy to grasp,” says Hyde.
The Stellar Scholars website fulfills that goal through six modules covering topics including: the phases of the moon; the design and function of AICO’s telescopes; the formation and evolution of galaxies and planets; how space research innovations impact daily life; and Indigenous perspectives on astronomy.
The program also introduces participants to STEM fields, demonstrating how complex problems are solved and how students' own interests can connect to real-world opportunities.
Modules are complemented by a teacher portal that provides program resources. Educators have access to video lectures, worksheets with answer keys, interactive game-based quizzes, printable handouts and simulations. Using the portal, teachers can assign modules for homework or group activities, track progress, foster collaboration and critical thinking and provide certificates of completion. Hands-on activities – such as creating foldable sundials, using telescopes and spaceship exercises – allow learners to explore astronomical concepts in practical, experiential ways. Hyde notes, too, that any individual can access and complete the modules for fun or education – regardless if they are a student or teacher.
York University undergraduate and graduate students, including C4 participants, as well as volunteers, developed all resources under Hyde's guidance. “By drawing on the expertise of the York community, we can offer learners authentic astronomical knowledge that reflects both practical experience and the latest advances in the field,” says Hyde.
Looking ahead, Hyde wants to build on that by expanding Stellar Scholars’ content offerings. She invites members of the York community to contribute so the program can reach more students, provide additional modules and enhance STEM learning opportunities across diverse classrooms.
“Hopefully this program will grow and expand to be a widely used resource for educators,” she says. “Through these efforts, we strive to create a more inclusive and innovative future in STEM education.”
Those interested in showcasing research, participating in outreach or creating modules should contact Hyde at eahyde@yorku.ca.