E-Learning modules on optics in SEOS

An initiative of using remote sensing in science education curricula at high schools has been launched by EARSeL. The project, entitled Science Education through Earth Observation for High Schools (SEOS) started in August 2007 and will have a duration of two years. It combines the efforts of 11 partners, all members of EARSeL and representing research and cultural organisations, universities and information management corporations. Based on their research results, internet-based tutorials are realised on selected topics in Earth observation. The tutorials cover themes, which are relevant to lessons in geography, biology, physics, engineering and mathematics. A particular focus is on the context of these subjects, in agreement with the interdisciplinary aspects of earth observation, which shall stimulate knowledge in other science disciplines and shall help to solve problems in team work.

Teaching physics in high schools is not always straightforward. The students are confronted with a series of formulas and theories that are often difficult to understand and to relate to every-day life. Therefore, two tutorial address topics of physics curricula where interest of students can be attracted with Earth observation data: 'Understanding Spectra from the Earth' and 'Laser Remote Sensing'. In the first instance both tutorials aim at teaching optics, spectroscopy and elements of electricity and magnetism. This includes themes such as geometrical and wave optics, spectra of light and radiation, electromagnetic waves and photons, vibrations and waves, physics of light sources including lasers, optical instruments for measuring light and radiation intensity and imagery. These themes are presented with examples from the student's daily life. But the focus is given on remote sensing data of the earth surface, the atmosphere and the oceans, to the spectral information included therein and to the methods used to measure spectral images onboard satellites.

Further to these aspects the modules shall emphasize interdisciplinary and integrative approaches in the curricula of schools. Indeed, remote sensing data used in these modules have a unique potential for interdisciplinary education. Beyond optical phenomena which are evident in satellite images, they include information relevant to topics of other science disciplines such as land cover and vegetation, environmental hazards, ocean currents and temperature, atmospheric constituents and weather phenomena, and may others. They also link these topics to actual themes such as climate change. This will help building bridges between physics and the other science disciplines in high school education.