Evaluating introductory seminars on observational astronomy, using the Europlanet Evaluation Toolkit

Abstract

During December 2018 - February 2019, the Hellenic Amateur Astronomy Association coordinated a series of seminars entitled Introduction to Observational Astronomy. The goal of this series was to introduce interested individuals to the aspects of the observational techniques for scientifically useful observations. Using the Europlanet Evaluation Toolkit we implemented a number of evaluation methods to receive feedback. The results show the participation of a mainly young audience ( 60% between 18-39), where females are represented more than equally ( 52%). Using the pebbles in a jar method a 94% of satisfied attendees was measured, while by using post-event surveys (questionnaires) the lectures were perceived as (very) explicit and (very) interesting (94%), fulfilling the attendees' expectations (92%). It is important to note that 88% considers that their interest in Astronomy increased and is willing to get involved in observations.