Professor
Volker Bromm
Office: RLM 16.214
Hours: TBA
Phone: (512) 471-3432
email
Course Website
TA
Jarrett Johnson
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Course Objectives
We will trace the history of astronomy over
two millenia, and discover the intimate relation of this great
story of discovery to the overall evolution of human civilization.
In a very direct way, the history of astronomy is OUR story, telling
us about our place in a magnificent and forever changing universe.
Texts
The two required texts are (available at the Co-op):
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Michael Hoskin, The History of Astronomy, Oxford University Press
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Marcia Bartusiak, Archives of the Universe Vintage Books
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On the course website (Calendar), you will find assigned the specific
chapters to be read. You should read them BEFORE each class. We will
have a few unannounced, very brief, quizzes to test your knowledge.
Grading
The students final grade will be based on a point system:
Essay 1
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20
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Essay 2
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20
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Essay 3
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20
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2 in-class Exams
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2 x 15
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Quizzes
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10
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The following grading scheme will be used:
A =
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85 - 100
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B =
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70 - 84
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C =
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60 - 69
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D =
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50 - 59
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Any score below 50 is failing.
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Class Participation
It is important that you come to class. If you
miss more than 2 classes without a valid excuse, you will have 20
points subtracted from your score.
Essays
The three essays are the core of your effort, in
accordance with the substantial writing requirement. You
can choose each essay's topic from a list of suggestions provided
by the instructor. You are asked to submit a first version
of the essay, will receive detailed suggestions for improving
the work from the instructor, and will have the opportunity to
modify the text. Only then, after the final submission, will the
grade be assigned. The grade will reflect the content as well as
the style. Each essay should have 6 typewritten, double-spaced
pages (plus bibliography and title page).
Policies
There will be make-up exams ONLY for students with valid
excuses. Scholastic dishonesty, in particular any plagiarism,
will be prosecuted in accordance with the university guidelines.
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