Linking astronomy and culture : from stars and the universe to temples and sundials

Abstract

In his introduction to the section on science education of this publication (i.e., Section I), the present Rector of the University of Malta Professor Alfred Vella states, "I have known Frank Ventura since we first worked together in 1975, both teaching Advanced level Chemistry at the Upper Secondary School in Valletta (Evans Building):' That was the year when I, at 15 years of age, started my first year as a sixth form student, at the Evans Labs Building at the very bottom of Merchant's Street in Valletta, where the sixth form science students were housed at the time. Amongst the Chemistry teachers at sixth form, I remember Professor Frank Ventura, Professor Alfred Vella and the (late) Mr George Agius (who worked together and co-authored papers with Professor Ventura). None of the three taught me Chemistry during my two years at sixth form, although they all lectured me later in my educational career: Professor Ventura and Mr Agius lectured me during my BEd (Honours) course and Professor Vella lectured me during my BSc degree programme. Professor Ventura was also my BEd (Honours) dissertation supervisor. I have also worked with both Professor Vella, for a short period of a few months at the G. F. Abela New Lyceum when I started teaching Advanced level Chemistry, and for around 12 years with Professor Ventura at MATSEC.