Speaker Night – New Observatory

Talk Synopsis – Reconnecting Students to the Cosmos with Experiential Learning

Abstract: Astronomy education is losing its connection with the night sky. Urbanization, automation, and computerization have all made it less and less likely that a typical astronomy undergraduate will use a telescope as part of their training. Most undergraduates at big urban campuses use archival or simulated data in their courses, rather than learning to make their own observations. At the University of Toronto, we are trying to change this. As part of a recent partnership with the RASC Toronto Centre, we have constructed a new 0.5-m observatory at the E. C. Carr Astronomical Observatory near Collingwood. For the first time in more than 15 years, our students can make overnight observing trips to a real telescope. They can physically interact with a research-grade telescope at a dark site, learning how to handle equipment and how to find their way around the sky. They also have the chance to interact with the real experts on the night sky—RASC members! In this talk, I will report on the first year using the new telescope with students, and on other experiential learning initiatives at U of T that aim to connect students directly with the sky. I will warmly welcome discussion with the audience about pathways for keeping students in touch with the cosmos.

Bio: Dr. Michael Reid is an Associate Professor, Teaching Stream in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Toronto. He specializes in developing astronomy courses that make complex astronomical ideas, from the Big Bang to alien life, accessible to everyone. He’s passionate about sharing the science and wonder of astronomy with all audiences.