Simply put, the objectives of Astronomy & Space Physics are to
acquire an understanding of the modern scientific view of the entire
Universe (in one semester, no less!). We shall spend very little
time on topics like constellations and
the techniques of observational astronomy. Instead, we will be more concerned
with questions like what are the objects in the Universe, and how do they
work? Answers to these questions will be based on the science of physics
(although a previous course in physics is not required).
In short, every topic will be approached from the point of view best described
by the questions:
What do we know?
How do we know it?
and, Why should we believe it?
It is my hope that, after completing this course, you will acquire
a level of understanding regarding the latest developments in
astronomy and solar system
exploration so that you will be able to understand astronomy articles in publications
like The New York Times Science Section,
Scientific American,
Sky and
Telescope,
and Astronomy.
Miami Plan Foundation Course
As you should be aware, Physics 111, Astronomy and Space Physics, is a
Miami Plan Foundation Course and should therefore satisfy the four goals as stated
in the Miami Plan for liberal education (p. 22 of the Miami Bulletin
or follow
this link for the web version):
Thinking Critically
Understanding Contexts
Engaging with Other Learners
Reflecting and Acting
Below, I give some of my interpretation about what these four goals mean regarding
the study of astronomy.
Thinking Critically: As stated above, the major goal of this course is encapsulated
in the questions, "What do we know?", "How do we know it?", and "Why should
we believe it?"
In astronomy, the ability to analyze facts obtained through observation and arrive at
a satisfactory explanation are central. One must also be prepared to discard an explanation
when new and contradictory facts are obtained.
Understanding Contexts:
An important theme in astronomy is how
a few number of physical principles can be used to understand a wide variety
of astronomical phenomena. This course attempts to illustrate not only these principles, but
the history, in a social and cultural context, of how we, humanity, arrived at an understanding
of these principles.
Engaging with Other Learners: In Physics 111, students are assigned to a small
group of five or six students to research a topic of current interest in astronomy. The project
report for the group is a set of web pages that are posted so that all of the students in the
class can examine their results.
Reflecting and Acting:
Physics 111 does not intend to make either professional
or amateur astronomers out of its students. However, a major goal of the course
is that students become sufficiently knowledgeable about astronomy so that they can
understand reports about new discoveries and the debates of theories. For example, are you more
likely to read a newspaper or magazine article dealing with astronomy after completing
Physics 111? Another aspect of reflecting and acting deals with your future role in society.
As a voting citizen, you will be called on to support
or deny support for the funding of various scientific endeavors, including astronomy
and space exploration.
Physics 111 should provide you with a sufficient background in astronomy
to make
an informed choice regarding the funding of such research.
Your Place in the Universe Thematic Sequence
Physics 111 is the foundation course for a thematic sequence in astronomy.
Here are the details.