The authors provide an "in the trenches" practical approach to integrate modern science education research-based activities into the Astro-101 classroom in order to increase student engagement and learning productivity.

This book provides a wealth of astronomy knowledge designed for the non-science major. Presents thorough coverage of the big ideas in astronomy. For self-study purposes for those interested in astronomy.

Astronomy is a popular subject for non-science majors in the United States, often representing a last formal exposure to science. Research has demonstrated the efficacy of active learning, but college astronomy instructors are often unaware of the tools and methods they can use to increase student comprehension and engagement. This book focuses on practical implementation of evidence-based strategies that are supported by research literature. Chapter topics include an overview of learner-centered theories and strategies for course design and implementation, the use of Lecture-Tutorials, the use of technology and simulations to support learner-centered teaching, the use of research-based projects, citizen science, World Wide Telescope and planetariums in instruction, an overview of assessment, considerations for teaching at a community college, and strategies to increase the inclusivity of courses.

This book focuses on the practical implementation of evidence-based strategies that are supported by research literature. Chapter topics include an overview of learner-centered theories and strategies for course design and implementation, the use of Lecture Tutorials, the use of technology and simulations to support learner-centered teaching, the use of research-based projects, citizen science, World Wide Telescope and planetariums in instruction, and many other useful tools and methods.

Astronomy is taught in schools worldwide, but few schoolteachers have any background in astronomy or astronomy teaching, and available resources may be insufficient or non-existent. This volume highlights the many places for astronomy in the curriculum; relevant education research and 'best practice'; strategies for pre-service and in-service teacher education; the use of the Internet and other technologies; and the role that planetariums, observatories, science centres, and organisations of professional and amateur astronomers can play. The special needs of developing countries, and other under-resourced areas are also highlighted. The book concludes by addressing how the teaching and learning of astronomy can be improved worldwide. This valuable overview is based on papers and posters presented by experts at a Special Session of the International Astronomical Union.

Astronomy is a popular subject for non-science majors in the United States, often representing a last formal exposure to science. Nationwide, more than half of all college students take at least one class online each year. In addition, there has been a rapid growth in Massive Open Online Classes (MOOCs), where adult learners take an online class for enrichment rather than for credit towards a degree. For both formal and informal learners, online course delivery is becoming increasingly important, and the resources for instructors have not kept up with this rapid change. This book aims to fill that need, with advice on all the tools and resources that are suitable for online classes. The book's purpose is to bring astronomy instructors up to speed on the best ways to create and teach an online astronomy class, for traditional college students and for distributed audiences of lifelong learners. Instructors of these courses will see articles on the online use of real and virtual telescopes, simulations and applets, and tools that adapt to the learner. Each chapter is written by an academic who is adept in teaching online classes to diverse audiences.

From a noted specialist in astronomy education and outreach, this Brief provides an overview of the most influential discipline-based science education research literature now guiding contemporary astronomy teaching. In recent years, systematic studies of effective and efficient teaching strategies have provided a solid foundation for enhancing college-level students’ learning in astronomy. Teaching astronomy and planetary science at the college-level was once best characterized as professor-centered, information-download lectures. Today, astronomy faculty are striving to drastically improve the learning environment by using innovative teaching approaches. Uniquely, the authors have organized this book around strands of commonly employed astronomy teaching strategies to help readers, professors, and scholars quickly access the most relevant work while, simultaneously, avoiding the highly specialized, technical vocabulary of constructivist educational pedagogies unfamiliar to most astronomy professors. For readers who are currently teaching astronomy at the college level—or those who plan on teaching at the college level in the future—this Brief provides an indispensable guide.