PHYS 101 Survey of Astronomy*

This course involves the study of solar and stellar astronomy. The relationship of astronomy to the other sciences is stressed. Topics include history of astronomy, motions of celestial bodies, earth, moon, planets, astronomical instruments and methods, spectra, stars, unusual stars, galaxies, and cosmology.

Credits

4 Credits

Corequisite

PHYS 101L

General Education Competency

Scientific Way of Knowing

PHYS 101Survey of Astronomy*

Please note: This is not a course syllabus. A course syllabus is unique to a particular section of a course by instructor. This curriculum guide provides general information about a course.

I. General Information

Department

II. Course Specification

General Education Competency

Scientific Way of Knowing

Credit Hours Narrative

4 Credits

Corequisite Narrative

PHYS 101L

III. Catalog Course Description

This course involves the study of solar and stellar astronomy. The relationship of astronomy to the other sciences is stressed. Topics include history of astronomy, motions of celestial bodies, earth, moon, planets, astronomical instruments and methods, spectra, stars, unusual stars, galaxies, and cosmology.

IV. Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:

  • Gain an appreciation for the night sky and the wonders which it holds.
  • See how different branches of science work together to gain a better understanding of the forces that shape and govern the universe around us.
  • Show an understanding of the basic properties of the components of the universe: stars, planets, galaxies, etc….
  • Know how physical laws work in the universe and how these laws can be used to measure and understand what is occurring in the universe.
  • Explain the basic ideas of the formation, history, present state, and possible future of the universe based upon our bets understanding at this time.
  • Understand that our views of the universe change as our ability to gather data increases and theories are adapted to reflect this increasing knowledge.

V. Topical Outline (Course Content)

VI. Delivery Methodologies