Astronomers are in the business of looking for and understanding systems, interactions, patterns, equilibrium, energy, motion, and scientific models. It is this quest for scientific knowledge that the instructional materials that follow this preface represent. Textbooks often give learners the false impression that astronomy is simply memorizing constellations that are difficult to find, star names that are impossible to spell, and planet densities that are meaningless to the curious. The nature of science is a difficult concept for many individuals.
Science is a process of systematically observing the world and making conclusions based on data.
Many of these same people often visit the local planetarium, watch the discovery channel religiously, or make long pilgrimages to Six Flags or Epcot Center with zeal. Using the technological resources of the PSU-GAO, it is my hope that many people will begin to realize that science is a relevant and integral part of our lives, our history, and our future. In education, current research indicates that learners will benefit most by manipulating materials, integrating new observations into preexisting conceptions, and communicating their ideas with their peers. The following materials are intended to involve students in discovery and application of knowledge in the world of astronomy. I have resisted the temptation to forever sentence these activities to a particular grade level.