Information about the Physics 1130 (Intro Astronomy) online class
The Internet version of Physics 1130 is considered an "online" class, but not
a "distance
learning" class. This means that you won't have a regularly scheduled class
time to meet, but you will have to be physically present on campus to take the
tests.
Here's how the class will proceed:
The course is run from the Blackboard online
environment. You will receive access to the course on the first
official day of class, as scheduled by the University. Course material
is divided into twelve weekly Lessons. Each Lesson consists of a reading
assignments from the textbook, online material for you to learn,
and a homework assignment. Homework assignments will be
completed through WebAssign, an online homework and quizzing facility; you
will not be required to be on campus to complete the homework. Students in the online classes will be expected
to be present on campus four times during the semester, all for the purpose of
taking tests or the final exam. The three test dates will be announced
on the first official day of class, when the course becomes available to
you.
IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that you take the online version of this class
only if you are otherwise unable to come to campus. It is NOT a good
idea to take the online class simply because you don't want to bother to come to class.
Please note that due to the challenging nature of the material and the
strong need for self-discipline, most students find it easier to succeed in
the traditional lecture setting.
FAQs
Can I log-on at my convenience, or is there a set time when I need to log-on?
There is no set time when you have to log on; you can do so at your convenience. Professor Benchich will be holding optional office hours online in Centra each week.
Can I do the assignments at my convenience?
The reading and homework are assigned weekly. As long as you get their work done by the deadline each week, it's at your convenience.
Do I have to participate in discussion boards?
There are no discussion boards.
How do I access the online class?
To access the online class, go to our class webpage in Blackboard. There you will find instructions for how to take the class, a list of materials you will need, and the weekly assignments.
Do I have to take the astronomy lab with this course?
The astronomy lab and the astronomy class are independent, so you don't have to take them both, or take them simultaneously.