Astronomy 201

Syllabus | Grading | Learning Outcomes

Course Catalog Description

ASTRONOMY 201 - Descriptive Astronomy
Descriptive survey of major astronomical facts, concepts, and relationships, starting with the solar system and extending to stars, galaxies, and cosmogonies. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course. Prerequisites: Eligibility for English 101 based on prior coursework or CCCRTW, COMPASS, ACT, or SAT test scores, or Consent of Department Chairperson. 3 credit hours

Textbook and Materials

The Essential Cosmic Perspective. Bennett, Jeffrey O. 9th edition, Pearson Education, Inc. with Mastering Astronomy. The textbook may be purchased from Wright's on-line bookstore
Notebook paper and a pencil should be brought to class for the completion of assessments and activities.
Instructions to register for Mastering Astronomy are on Brightspace.
Recommended apps(free): Stellarium and Celestia.

Statement of Course Goal

The goal of this course is to awakening your curiosity about our universe and to introduce you to the wonders therein.

Course Introduction

This course counts as a general education couse for the Physical Sciences. It is a lecture course so it does not fulfill any requirements for laboratory work. This course is for beginners and therefore does not presume any knowledge of Astronomy. It is primarily a descriptive course but will introduce some mathematical concepts with explanations suitable for those with only a basic understanding of mathematics. You will learn through lectures, class discussions, projects, online activities and homework assignments. You will be assessed through quizzes and tests, homework assignments, class participation and projects.

Instructor

Prof Joy Walker

Learning About Volcanos at Crater Lake

Currently I'm an adjunct professor emeritus for the City Colleges of Chicago. I was a tenured professor for 30+ years at Truman College. I love to learn and share my enthusiasm for learning. I have many interests. I enjoy learning about science, gardening, cooking and baking, linguistics and languages, drawing, painting and crafting, and literature. I believe we learn best when we are curious, excited, interested and engaged in our own learning processes.

Office Hours
Before and after class AND by appointment

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

I support this statement adopted by the Physical Science and Engineering department at Truman College

We are committed to equity, inclusion, diversity and success of students and staff. We retain a fundamental belief that all people belong and deserve fairness, justice, and inclusivity. Our strength comes from our diversity. We celebrate the visible and invisible qualities that make each person unique including, but not limited to, culture, race, gender, age, sexuality, ability, religion, national origin, gender identity and other identities. In the classroom we focus on treating everyone with dignity, respect, kindness, compassion, and civility. We value a community where all individuals from all levels can participate, contribute, and have a voice.

Astronomy Computer Programs

Night Vision
A planetarium program that is free and easy to use. You will need to download and install it.
World Wide Telescope