Conclusion

In June 1995 the National Committee for Astronomy of the Australian Academy of Science made three recommendations for education with the preamble: (National Committee for Astronomy, 1995, xviii)

``Astronomical Education. The future of astronomy in the nation depends upon maintaining a strong educational program at primary and secondary school level, at tertiary undergraduate and at postgraduate level. It also depends upon providing a public education which gives the community access to the newest exciting scientific results and achievements of our researchers.''

Recommendation 5 called for a graduate summer school -- which we now have each year with the Harley Wood School.

Recommendation 7 asked ``That Astronomical institutions should continue to give strong support to public education in astronomy, ... collaborating ... with amateur groups ... ''

Recommendation 6 remains a challenge. ``That a strategy for enhancing astronomical education in schools, ... should be formally adopted by the profession. This should be undertaken by the National Committee for Astronomy in consultation with the Astronomical Society of Australia, the Australian Education Council, the Australian Science Teachers' Association and the Schools Council. ''

We have made some progress in five years. I recollect that Bart Bok practiced a direct and personal advocacy of the delights of astronomy to politicians, students and public. We should follow his example and, on a national scale, give students access to our research.

© Copyright Astronomical Society of Australia 1997