CCCOnline LogoCourse Snapshot for AST101 - Astronomy I w/Lab: SC1

The information listed below is subject to change. Please review the course syllabus within your online course at the start of class.

Course Competencies

The competencies you will demonstrate in this course are as follows:

  1. Define each of the related vocabulary words.
  2. Recognize the appropriate symbols used.
  3. State the concepts introduced.
  4. Distinguish between different concepts within a topic.
  5. Interpret tables or graphs.
  6. Collect and organize data in a systematic manner.
  7. Present data by construction of charts and graphs.
  8. Evaluate the relevancy of data.
  9. Write a formal report.
  10. Set up and solve problems using geometry, algebra, and trigonometry as required.
  11. Apply concepts to new situations.
  12. Demonstrate the ability to select and apply contemporary forms of technology to solve problems or compile information.
Learning concepts for this course are enchanced using presentations, websites, and online discussions.

Module Outcomes Mapped to Competencies

Module 1: Science and the Exploration of the Universe
Learning Outcomes

 Mapped to Course Competencies (above)
  1. Estimate a rough approximation of the scale of the universe in both space and time;
  2. Describe the motion of the Earth, Sun, Moon and Planets in space and explain how those motions appear from a specific point of view on Earth.
  3. Describe and explain lunar phases, eclipses and the cause for seasons.
  4. Relate the motions of celestial objects to our time-keeping systems; the day, month and year.
 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11,12

Module 2: The Sun and Other Stars
Learning Outcomes

Mapped to Course Competencies (above)

  1. Compare and contrast the historical contributions to astronomy from various ancient cultures.
  2. State and explain a simple definition of the scientific method and explain how science is different from non scientific activities.
  3. Delineate the astronomical contributions of Copernicus, Brahe, Kepler, Galileo and Newton .
  4. Explain why astronomers use telescopes and the advantages of their use compared with naked-eye observing.
 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Module 3: Galaxies and Beyond
Learning Outcomes

Mapped to Course Competencies (above)

  1. State a general description of the Solar System and characteristics of the Terrestrial and Jovian planets.
  2. Detail the methods we use to study the Solar System.
  3. Describe the theory of solar system formation.
  4. Explain the patterns in the Solar System and reasons for exceptions to them.
  5. State similarities and differences between the planets; overall characteristics, internal structure, external appearance, atmospheres, geology, etc.
  6. Compare and contrast the Terrestrial planets with each other.
  7. Compare and contrast the Jovian planets with each other.
  8. Describe the most significant moons and ring systems in the Solar System.
1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11, 12

Module 4: Dark matter, Dark Energy and the Fate of the Universe
Learning Outcomes

Mapped to Course Competencies (above)

  1. Describe comets, asteroids and meteorites and how they give us insight into the formation of the Solar System and where we came from.
  2. Explain why the International Astronomical Union now classifies Pluto as a Dwarf Planet along with the newly discovered object called Eris.
  3. Describe the search for planets around other stars and the results of those searches to date.
  4. Describe the search for extraterrestrial intelligence and the probability of finding it.
 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8,11, 12

Course Time Commitment and Expectations

For every credit hour, students should plan to spend an average of 2-3 hours per week for course-related activities in a 15-week course. For example, a 3 credit hour course would average an average 6-9 hours per week to read/listen to the online content, participate in discussion forums, complete assignments, and study the course material. For 10  and 6-week courses, the amount of time per week will be higher so all course competencies, module outcomes, and assignments will be covered.

Aside from typical reading assignments, this course has the following (Please Note: This list is subject to change based on the discretion of the instructor facilitating this course.):

Assignment

Points

Mastering Astronomy Assignments (15 in all, totaling 100 points) 100
Laboratory Exercises (10 @ 25 points and 1 @ 75 points) 325
Module Discussions (14 @20 points) 280
Exams (4 Module@ 50 points each, Midterm and Final @ 75 points each) 350
TOTAL 1055

 

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