Astronometric Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (A CURE)

Abstract:

Inquiry-based learning builds from a natural process of questioning in which students experience a ‘need to know’ that motivates and deepens learning. Through the Astronomy Research Seminar, participants engage in hands-on, real-world problem-based learning that develops both domain-specific skills in astrometric analysis and knowledge of stars. Through digital tools and utilizing collaborative meetings, participants analyze data and creatively solve problems. Leveraging prior knowledge, science practices, and metacognition, the Astronomy Research Seminar’s inclusive approach to capacity building and problem solving models remote learning. The collaborative and iterative undergraduate research is a high impact practice. Participants obtain visual data for star systems from the Las Cumbres Observatory observation portal taken with a 0.4 meter telescope with a variety of different filter and exposure combinations. After analyzing the images and reconciling historical observations, participants develop hypotheses and argue from evidence for gravitationally bound or optical binary star systems. Using a logical, consistent, systematic method of investigating phenomena, including information/data collection, data analysis, the development of a hypothesis, and arguing from evidence, provides scientific explanations in the Astronomy Research Seminar resulting in publications and dissemination. The Astronomy Research Seminar utilizes guided inquiry as a way of thinking, learning, and teaching that creates a collaborative inquiry community.