Physics 111 Course Objectives

Course Goals:

• Simply put, the objectives of PHY111, Astronomy & Space Physics, are to acquire a basic 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 Perspective Course

• Critical and Integrative Thinking: 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 analyse facts obtained through observation and arrive at a satisfactory explanation consistent with the laws of physics are central. One must also be prepared to discard an explanation when new and contradictory facts are obtained and seek out a new explanation.
  
  
• Communication and Expression: 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. It is expected that students will be able to communicate and express this theme for many different astronomical questions.
  
  
• Collaboration and Innovation: In Physics 111, we will do many in class group activities where students try to apply the material to answer various questions. I expect that students will discuss, argue, and defend their proposed solutions. In addition, students will participate in a semester-long observing project to document and analyse the changing location and times of either the sunrise or sunset over a period of several months.
  
  
• Civic Mindedness and Social Engagement: 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 proposed theories. For example, are you more likely to read a newspaper or magazine article dealing with astronomy after completing Physics 111? Another aspect of civc mindedness and social engagement 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.