ABSTRACT
Astrobiology is the study of the origin, evolution, and distribution of life in the universe. Astrobiology is an interdisciplinary subject that draws from research in astronomy, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, geology, microbiology, physics, and planetary science. Education in astrobiology therefore helps students develop the awareness that all sciences are related. Astrobiology studies the origin of life on Earth and the search for extraterrestrial life; both are governed by universal physical laws but could develop under different rules of biochemistry. While many students have the perception that science is dull and boring, astrobiology discusses topics that are of great interest to students and the general public. The study of astrobiology can also serve as a vehicle for the discussion of possible development of human society in the future. The rapid development of the field of astrobiology offers a better opportunity as a vehicle for education reform than other more established or entrenched disciplines of science.
