PHYS 101 Introduction to Astronomy

General

• Communicate their experimental findings, analyses, and interpretations both orally and in writing.
• Demonstrate quantitative reasoning skills and competency with arithmetic and elementary statistics at a level appropriate for graduates of bachelors degree programs.
• Demonstrate understanding of scientific facts and theories in astronomy.
• Evaluate societal issues from a natural science perspective, ask questions about the evidence presented, and make informed judgments about science-related topics and policies.
• Formulate and test hypotheses by experiment in astronomy, including the collection of data, statistical and graphical analysis of results, and interpretation of its sources of error and uncertainty.
• Recall, describe and apply the concepts, knowledge and vocabulary of astronomy at the level necessary for informed citizenship and success in teaching General Science at the grades 5-8 level.
• Understand and describe the technology, both ancient and modern, used for astronomical observations; and use methods for naked-eye observations to acquire an appreciation for and an understanding of the astronomy of the local night sky.
• Understand and explain the properties and origins of astronomical objects; the range of distances and time scales that apply to various astronomical objects and phenomena; and why astronomical objects (Sun, Moon, planets, stars) appear to move the way we see them move both from a geocentric and heliocentric point of view.
• Use quantitative and qualitative problem solving skills to understand the laws of motion, gravity and light.