Introduction

Introductory remarks on astronomy education in Croatia are given. Since the learning process is a complex intellectual and emotional process which should be supported during the interaction with the teacher, different approaches should be used. Tests could give useful insight into preconceptions. The following approaches should be balanced: historical approach, discovery approach (by the use of self-made tools and courtyard observations), and thorough inclusion of novel scientific results and views (to which a special precaution has been paid).

The Croatian Experience

This is a report about an experience in teaching astronomy to the students who will become teachers in physics or physics and mathematics. It should be stressed that astronomy in Croatia is not a standard subject in any schools, except as an elective course in some grammar and high schools; furthermore, astronomical concepts are partly exposed within physics.

The first step toward students should be mutual acquaintance. In order to test students’ previous knowledge, I used 20–25 questions mainly of a general nature (starting in 1975). I had the opportunity to teach at all four Croatian universities: Zagreb, Osijek, Rijeka and Split. People in these towns may have different backgrounds. Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and cosmopolitan. Osijek is the center of Slavonia and belongs to an agricultural and Panonian environment. Split is heart of Dalmatia and situated on the Adriatic Sea – in the Mediterranean region. Without regard to differences in life attitudes, temperament and historical background of populations, the test showed a low level of general knowledge in natural sciencies, especially regarding comprehension of objects and scientific terms.