Astronomy & Cosmologies
Last Updated: 11/11/2009
Spring quarter
Faculty: EJ Zita physics, astronomy
Academic web site: academic.evergreen.edu/curricular/astro
Major areas of study include astronomy, physics, mythology, history and philosophy of science.
Class Standing: Sophomores or above; transfer students welcome.
Prerequisites: Proficiency with algebra; strong reading and writing skills.
Our goal in this program is to learn beginning to intermediate astronomy through lectures, discussions, interactive workshops and observation, using the naked eye, binoculars and telescopes. We will learn about the evolution and structure of our universe and celestial bodies. Students will build and take home astronomical tools such as spectrometers and position finders. Students will also research a topic of interest via observations and reading, and share their research with classmates.
In our seminars we will discuss the idea of cosmologies: how people across cultures and throughout history have understood, modeled, and ordered the universe they perceived. We will study creation stories and worldviews, from those of ancient peoples to modern astrophysicists. Students will meet in small teams for pre-seminar discussion, and write essays and responses to the readings.
Students taking this program must be willing to work in teams and use computers for online assignments. Students are invited to help organize an observation field trip to regions with clear skies.
Credits: 16 per quarter
Enrollment: 25
Special Expenses: Approximately $40 for materials; $200-300 for binoculars and tripod; and up to $300 for possible field trip.
Program is preparatory for careers and future studies in astronomy, natural sciences, history and philosophy of science and education.
Planning Units: Scientific Inquiry