Our Star System and Beyond

Course aim

We will have the opportunity to look at some of the objects in our star system in some detail and venture out into deep space.

Do I need any particular skills or experience?

• No skills or experience needed
• This course is for beginners
• This course is suitable for beginners and improvers

By the end of the course I should be able to:

• Locate some of the major constellations.
• Describe some of the features of the planets and some other objects in our Solar System.
• Describe the shape of the Milky Way galaxy and our Sun's position within it.
• Suggest how our Sun may have evolved and is likely to evolve.
• Outline how astronomical distances might be measured.

How will I be taught?

• The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
• You may be asked to undertake additional work in your own time to support your learning

What kind of feedback can I expect?

• A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
• You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
• You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning
• You will be encouraged to consider other students work and give your opinions and suggestions

What else do I need to know?

• Nothing else is needed
• It would be helpful if you had access to the internet (Mobile phone, tablet or computer at home or through a library etc.)

Pre-course work, reading and information sources

• No pre reading is required but research on the subject on the internet or in the library may be helpful

What can I do next?

• Progress to another WEA course
• Progress to a course with another provider
• A comprehensive 'What Next' will be provided near the end of the course.