Activity description:
Students will become explorers of the universe and learn how to send “messages from space” using Morse code. After a short introduction about the history and use of Morse code in communication, children will practice encoding simple words (STEAM, STAR, EARTH, PEACE) through combinations of short and long signals. They will complete unplugged exercises on paper and then transfer their messages into digital activities (Scratch/Code.org) or use applications that simulate Morse transmissions.

Messages from Space - Coding in Morse

Activity description:

Students explore the secrets of space communication through Morse code. During the activity, they learn how to transform letters and words into light or sound signals, discovering how messages can travel through space. The activity develops logical thinking, creativity, and coding skills in a fun and interactive way.

Messages from Space – Morse Code

🎯 Objective:

Introduce students to Morse code and how to use it to send encrypted messages.

Develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Promote teamwork and make learning fun.

✨ Target Skills:

Communication

Critical thinking

Collaboration

Encoding and decoding

🧰 Materials Needed:

Cards or sheets with Morse code symbols for the alphabet.

Pens and small notebooks.

A small flashlight, whistle, or an app that produces light/sound signals (optional).

An envelope or a “Message from Space.”

🚀 Activity Steps:

1. Engaging Introduction

I started by telling a short story:

> “We’ve received a mysterious message from aliens! But it’s encrypted in Morse code… Are you ready to decode it? 👽🔐”

2. Introducing Morse Code

A quick explanation of how the code works (dot = •, dash = —).

Displaying the Morse code alphabet chart.

A simple exercise where each student encodes her name.

3. Decoding the Message

I handed out the “space message” (a short sentence written in Morse code, e.g., “Hello from space”).

Groups worked together to decode the message.

4. Sending an Encrypted Message

Each group wrote a short sentence (e.g., a greeting or a question to the aliens) and converted it into Morse code.

They sent it using light or sound signals, and another group decoded it.

5. Presenting the Results

Each group shared the messages they decoded.

Points and motivational stickers were awarded to the fastest and most accurate group 🤗🌠

On the occasion of World Space Week (October 4–10, 2025), the Sălaj Teacher Training Centre (Casa Corpului Didactic Sălaj) hosted the astronomy workshop “Developing Students’ Critical Thinking through STRREAM Activities”, delivered by primary school teachers Dr. Marinela Sârca (Valcău de Jos Secondary School No. 1) and PhD candidate Ioana Baboș (Gheorghe Lazăr Secondary School, Zalău).

The event provided participants with the opportunity to explore innovative ways of integrating technology into the educational process. Teachers experienced coding activities using Micro:bit, discovered the educational potential of the augmented reality applications Quiver and Space 4D+, and took part in practical workshops such as “Virtual Tour through the Galaxy” (Merge Cube) and “Messages from the Stars” (Micro:bit).

Through these interactive learning experiences, participants explored how the STRREAM approach (Science, Technology, Robotics, Reading, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) contributes to the development of critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving skills, and collaboration among students. The activities demonstrated that inquiry-based learning and the use of emerging technologies can transform abstract concepts into meaningful and authentic learning experiences.

As World Post Day is celebrated on October 9, participants also had the opportunity to visit a philately exhibition dedicated to the theme of space exploration. The exhibition featured items from the personal collection of Mr. Mirel Matyas, Director of the Sălaj Teacher Training Centre. In addition, with the support of ASTROMIX Publishing House and the CCD Sălaj Library, a specialized book exhibition was organized, offering valuable resources in the fields of astronomy and STEM education.

The event was attended by representatives of the leadership of the Sălaj County School Inspectorate: Mr. Gheorghe Bancea, General School Inspector, Mrs. Irina-Elisabeta Kovacs, Deputy General School Inspector, and Mrs. Corina Forț, Deputy General School Inspector. In his speech, Mr. Gheorghe Bancea emphasized the importance of STRREAM-based pedagogical approaches in developing 21st-century skills and preparing students for the challenges of contemporary society.

Established by the United Nations in 1999, World Space Week commemorates two significant milestones in the history of space exploration: the launch of Sputnik 1, the first artificial Earth satellite, on October 4, 1957, and the signing of the Outer Space Treaty on October 10, 1967, which regulates the peaceful exploration and use of outer space.

Through its interdisciplinary and innovative nature, the workshop organized at the Sălaj Teacher Training Centre represented an example of educational good practice, demonstrating that the exploration of space can provide an authentic context for developing key competences, critical thinking skills, and a lifelong passion for learning. The event was included in the international calendar of World Space Week activities, contributing to the promotion of science and technology education within the educational community.