Artificial Intelligence and Astronomy: Lab Manual for Generative AI-Based Learning Activities

Lab Manual Files: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15555802

Abstract:

This lab manual is designed for undergraduate astronomy courses and introduces students to the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in space science. It emphasizes the use of publicly accessible generative AI tools—including text, image, and video platforms—to enhance student engagement, critical thinking, and digital literacy in the context of astronomy education.

The manual includes:

A comprehensive overview of how AI is used in astronomy (e.g., image enhancement, object classification, spacecraft autonomy, detection of cosmic phenomena).

A typology of AI relevant to astronomy, including analytical, generative, scientific, and autonomous systems.

Step-by-step laboratory activities guiding students in evaluating AI-generated answers, creating AI-generated images of astronomical objects, and producing short videos illustrating dynamic cosmic events.

Templates for student reports and a survey link for collecting feedback.

Educational goals focused on fostering inquiry-based learning, technological proficiency, and media literacy.

The lab manual is suitable for use in general education astronomy courses, AI-enhanced science education modules, or interdisciplinary explorations of science and technology in the classroom.

Artificial Intelligence and Astronomy: Lab Manual for Generative AI-Based Learning Activities

Lab Manual Files: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15555802

Abstract:

This lab manual is designed for undergraduate astronomy courses and introduces students to the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in space science. It emphasizes the use of publicly accessible generative AI tools—including text, image, and video platforms—to enhance student engagement, critical thinking, and digital literacy in the context of astronomy education.

The manual includes:

A comprehensive overview of how AI is used in astronomy (e.g., image enhancement, object classification, spacecraft autonomy, detection of cosmic phenomena).

A typology of AI relevant to astronomy, including analytical, generative, scientific, and autonomous systems.

Step-by-step laboratory activities guiding students in evaluating AI-generated answers, creating AI-generated images of astronomical objects, and producing short videos illustrating dynamic cosmic events.

Templates for student reports and a survey link for collecting feedback.

Educational goals focused on fostering inquiry-based learning, technological proficiency, and media literacy.

The lab manual is suitable for use in general education astronomy courses, AI-enhanced science education modules, or interdisciplinary explorations of science and technology in the classroom.