ASTR 130: Introduction to Archaeoastronomy

Discipline
Credits 3 Lecture Hours 3
Designation
DP
Introduction to the interdisciplinary study of cultures and astronomy for non-science majors. Topics include naked-eye astronomy, myths and rituals, calendar systems, architectural alignments and navigation.
Course Outcomes
  • Describe and explain the observable daily motions of celestial bodies.
  • Identify the phases of the moon and explain what causes them.
  • List some cultural associations of the planets.
  • Identify and use measurement tools for determining astronomical alignments.
  • Illustrate how astronomical knowledge can be used in navigation.
  • Compare and contrast how different cultures used astronomical knowledge.
  • Assess the strengths and weaknesses of an interpretation of evidence from an archaeoastronomy site.
  • Explain how culture and science are interrelated.