Discovering the Universe (Cred. 3); Prereq: None—A Gen Ed. Physical Science (P) Course
An elementary, largely non-mathematical survey of our universe of stars, planets and galaxies. Acquaints students with the development of astronomy as a human activity—with how we know as well as what we know. Course work and exams emphasize thought processes which help scientists understand our natural world—procedures scientists use to understand the powers and limitations of science. AST 1002 is neither a stargazing nor a laboratory course.
Course content and exams emphasize clear thinking in dealing with problems—problems not only faced by scientists but by all of us in dealing with daily issues. Hence, solving class problems is really an exercise in common sense thinking—identification of issues and questions, collection of relevant data, recognition of pertinent principles, resolution of the problem by proper application of these principles, which may include possible extrapolation and generalization of conclusions.
Class RequirementsNo formal homework except assigned reading but expect to devote substantial study time to course concepts including understanding example questions in course Study Guide. AST 1002 is primarily for students not majoring in physical sciences or math. Some material requires simple arithmetic or very elementary high school algebra. No more than about 15% of all exam questions require math. Calculations can often be approximated and answers rounded. Calculators neither needed nor permitted on exams.
(To see a sample math problem worked out, click here)
Class Web SiteStudents must have access to the Web in order to obtain and print material from the course Web site, which includes a detailed course syllabus. This site also has other information about this class including required texts, reading assignments, updates to printed materials, topic outlines, some abbreviated class PowerPoint presentations, the course calendar, new materials not in printed form, and details on examinations and grades. This Web site also lists exam scores and final grades.
There are also links to miscellaneous information, the local astronomy club and the publisher's Web site for the course textbook.
Subscribers to AST1002-L (see next section) will receive e-mail announcements about changes to this Web site.
See site map for a listing of contents.
- Students enrolled in this class must subscribe to the class electronic mailing list titled AST1002-L.
- Failure to subscribe to this list means you will miss important information that can effect your grade!
- Subscribers to AST1002-L will also receive e-mail announcements about changes to the class Web site.
This class assumes:
- All students can receive e-mail,
- Will subscribe to this list by the beginning of the second week of the term,
- Will check their e-mail in a timely way.
NOTE: All e-mail distributed to the AST1002-L list is archived
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