MATH8001 Poetry of the Cosmos

Offered By	Department of Mathematics
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Mathematics
Offered in	MATH8001 will not be offered in 2011
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	This course discusses these topics: The structure of the cosmos - from microbes to galaxies History of science The Copernican revolution and the Copernican Principle The methodology of science and the nature of scientific laws Relativity and the union of space and time Gravity, the curvature of space,and Black holes Quantum theory and determinism The arrow of time and causality The philosophy of space and time The Cosmological Principle and the nature of Cosmological models Anthropic principles Multi-universes – are they necessary? The emergence of life and intelligence in the universe Self-organising systems Neural networks Self-reproducing automata
Learning Outcomes	On satisfying the requirements of this course, the students will have: 1. An understanding in outline of the history of cosmology, and of contemporary cosmology. 2. A conceptual understanding of relativity theory and quantum mechanics. 3. An appreciation that many of the theories underlying modern cosmology are contentious. 4. An understanding of what would be involved in further study in the philosophy of science, and in cosmology. 5. A habit of educated questioning of scientific orthodoxy.
Indicative Assessment	Assessment is expected to be based on: Two short essays (20% each; LO 1-5) One long essay (40%; LO 1-5) In addition there will be quizzes and discussion board postings which will be released, and assessed, for the remaining 20% as the course proceeds.
Workload	Online quizzes, discussion board contributions and online assignments.
Course Classification(s)	TransitionalTransitional courses are designed for students from a broad range of backgrounds and learning achievements, which provide for the acquisition of generic skills; or an informed understanding of contemporary issues; or fundamental knowledge for transition to Advanced or Specialist courses.
Areas of Interest	Mathematics
Eligibility	Bachelor degree; Science degree or Bachelor of Education with science teaching experience.
Requisite Statement	Science degree or Bachelor of Education with science teaching experience.
Consent Required	Please contact MATHSadmin@maths.anu.edu.au for consent to enrol in this course.
Programs	Master of Contemporary Science and Master of Contemporary Science
Academic Contact	Prof Dayal Wickramasinghe and Dr Jason Grossman

The information published on the Study at ANU 2011 website applies to the 2011 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2010 website.