Astronomy and Cosmologies

REVISED

Spring 2013 quarter

Faculty

Rebecca Chamberlain literature, writing, yoga , Richard Miles

Fields of Study

astronomy, cultural studies, history, mathematics, philosophy and physics

Preparatory for studies or careers in

astronomy, natural sciences, history and philosophy of science, and education.

Prerequisites

Facility with algebra (e.g. good work in Algebra 2). Good reading, writing and thinking skills. Willingness to work in teams and to use computers for web-based assignments and information. There is no prerequisite in physics.

Description

This interdisciplinary program will combine science and humanities, as we learn beginning to intermediate astronomy through lectures, discussions, interactive workshops, and observation. We will use naked eyes, binoculars, and telescopes. We will learn about the evolution and structure of our universe and celestial bodies. How are stars born and why do they shine? How do stars die, and how can they contribute to new life? How do we know there is dark matter? How do we know that the universe is expanding - and even accelerating? What evidence is there for the Big Bang? We will study roles of science and of storytelling in human searches for understanding and meaning.

How have people across cultures and throughout history understood, modeled, and ordered the universe they perceive? From sacred stories to physics-based astronomy, we will explore a variety of cosmological concepts in science, literature, mythology, philosophy, history and/or archaeoastronomy. We will use scientific methods and other inquiry-based learning strategies that engage the imagination. Through readings, lectures, films, workshops, and discussions, participants will deepen their understanding of astronomy, and they will refine their understanding of the role that cosmology plays in our lives through the stories we tell, the observations we make, and the questions we ask. We will develop skills and appreciation for the ways we find our place in the universe through stories and science, imagination and intellect, qualitative and quantitative processes. Finally we will ask, how does our understanding of astronomy and cosmologies influence our understanding of sustainability and the quality of life on Earth?

We will work together as a learning community, in large and small groups. We will read and discuss science texts and do quantitative workshops and homework. Students will build and take home astronomical tools such as spectrometers and position finders. Students will analyze literary works related to astronomy and cosmology, and will develop an original piece of writing, either fiction or non-fiction. We will also share star stories from different cultures. Student teams will meet for pre-seminar discussions and assignments and will write short essays and responses to peers' essays. Research teams will explore questions of personal interest through observations, readings and calculations; and students will share their findings through presentations to classmates and the community. Students are invited to help organize observation field trips to eastern Washington or other regions with clearer skies.

Academic Website

http://academic.evergreen.edu/curricular/astro/2013/

Location

Olympia

Online Learning

Hybrid Online Learning 25 - 49% Delivered Online

Books

Greener Store

Required Fees

$60 for use of a spectrometer, solar motion demonstrator, and small telescope.

Special Expenses

Students must provide binoculars and tripod (estimated cost $200-300); optional field trip (up to $300)

May be offered again in

2014

Offered During

Day and Evening

Program Revisions