Duncan's main research focuses on the effectiveness of different ways of teaching science, particularly how technology improves or in some cases reduces student learning. He was invited to contribute a review chapter to a new book published by the American Astronomical Society and the Institute of Physics, entitled 'Technology and Engagement in the University Classroom.' Duncan's research is directly applicable to universities, science museums, and planetariums. He often presents it in regular talks (colloquia) but also in workshops and in an advisory capacity. He continues researching ways to make planetarium teaching more active, for instance by giving students a challenge where they must figure out where on earth they are. His 'Survivor' and 'Where are we in the Galaxy?' activities have been adopted as regular labs in the Department. Duncan delivered an invited talk at the first International Conference on Astronomy teaching in Germany in fall 2019.
keywords
Technology and science teaching, Museum studies, public communication of science
ASTR 1010 - Introductory Astronomy: The Solar System w/Lab
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018 / Spring 2019 / Fall 2019
Introduction to the night sky, planets, moons and the life in our solar system. Highlights the latest discoveries from space. For non-science majors. Some lectures may be held at Fiske Planetarium. Requires nighttime observations at Sommers-Bausch Observatory. Similar to ASTR 1000, but with additional lab. Degree credit granted for only one of ASTR 1000 or ASTR 1010.
ASTR 1020 - Introductory Astronomy: Stars & Galaxies w/Recitation
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018 / Spring 2020
Non-science majors learn the nature and workings of the Sun, stars, neutron stars, black holes, galaxies, quasars, structure and origins of the universe. Some lectures may be held at Fiske Planetarium. Offers opportunities for nighttime observations at Sommers-Bausch Observatory. Includes recitation. Degree credit not granted for this course and ASTR 1040 or ASTR 1200.
ASTR 1200 - Stars and Galaxies
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018 / Fall 2019
Non-science majors are introduced to the nature and workings of the Sun, stars, neutron stars, black holes, interstellar gas, galaxies, quasars, plus structure and origins of the universe. Some lectures may be held at Fiske Planetarium. Offers opportunities to attend nighttime observation sessions at Sommers-Bausch Observatory. Degree credit not granted for this course and ASTR 1020 or ASTR 1040.
ASTR 3800 - Introduction to Scientific Data Analysis and Computing
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2019 / Spring 2020
Introduces scientific data analysis from a practical perspective. Covers statistical analysis, model fitting, error analysis, theoretical compliance and image analysis with examples from space-based and ground-based astronomy. Elective for APS major. Opened to qualified non-majors with instructor consent.
FYSM 1000 - First Year Seminar
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018 / Fall 2019
Provide first year students with an immersive experience in an interdisciplinary topic that addresses current issues including social, technical and global topics. Taught by faculty from across campus, the course provides students with an opportunity to interact in small classes, have project based learning experiences and gain valuable communication skills. Seminar style classes focused on discussion and projects.
