“During today’s tense T-square between candid Jupiter, stern Saturn and placid Venus, conversations could devolve into conflict. Put safeguards in place, like not offering unsolicited advice. You might be feeling hypersensitive yourself, so don’t request feedback unless you’re open to hearing pointed criticism. When in doubt, choose kindness”
– Aries Horoscope, September 2024.
The difference between astrology and astronomy
Horoscopes are the bread and butter of astrology. Popular worldwide, its advocates use it to guide their dating preferences, financial decisions and life plans. Many turn to astrology for insight into their personality traits, compatibility with others and even the best times to make important life changes. From career choices to health routines, astrology plays a key role in shaping their decisions, providing a sense of direction and reassurance.
Astrology is often confused with astronomy. This is due to their similar sounding name and focus on the solar system. But despite this, they could not be further apart. The latter is based on scientific inquiry and evidence, the former on vibes.
Astronomy, based on sophisticated and advanced physics and mathematical equations, seeks to explain origins, structure and future of the universe. Through meticulous observation, research and analysis, our understanding is continually evolving and improving.
Astrology, however, is a belief system that suggests a connection between the positions of planets and stars, people’s birthdays and what will happen in their near future. Unfortunately for horoscope fans, a recent study found that when trying to predict 37 facts about people’s lives, knowing your star sign failed to accurately predict a single one.
Furthermore, the same researchers found that those who consider themselves to be “world class astrologers” actually did worse than if they randomly guessed.
The key difference between astronomy and astrology lies in their approach to understanding the universe. Astronomy is driven by evidence and the scientific method, continuously adapting as new data becomes available. Astrology, however, remains a belief system based on symbolic meanings rather than empirical evidence.
So, how is Teaching and Learning like them both?
Recent developments from Cognitive Science and developmental psychology, as well as the translation of them into accessible formats, has moved Teaching and Learning much nearer to astronomy than astrology. We now have a far better understanding of what is likely to accelerate learning and under which conditions.
For example, we have previously blogged on how American educator Zach Groshell’s analysis of major Teaching and Learning reports show a remarkable consistency as to what the core components of Teaching and Learning are. These include, but are not limited to modelling, Retrieval Practice, spaced practice, self-explanation and feedback.
And yet despite this, there is still room for nuance. Creativity. Individual flair. Research can act as a compass, pointing in a general direction. It cannot, and will never be, a GPS that can give us direction co-ordinates. Trying to use it as such will make it a straight jacket; uncomfortable and a blunt instrument. This is because every classroom, school and subject has its own demands, challenges and opportunities.
Final thoughts
Huge advances have been made in terms of education becoming more evidence-informed. By using research to help inform judgement, instead of replace it, we can use it effectively. It can provide a set of guidelines and principles. This means, if we use it well, we can all successfully and accurately aim for the stars.
