Learning Outcomes for this course (NEXA 380):
 (1) Students will acquire knowledge of the relations, past and present, of the science of physics and astronomy, the art of literature, and the highly significant human values explored as a result of their interaction concerning cosmology and world views.
Students will discover the important idea that humanity's view of our place in the physical universe affects and is affected by our culture.

(2)  Students will demonstrate an awareness of physics and astronomy and literature at significant junctures of human history as they relate to cosmology and worldviews and their interaction.  They will identify significant cosmological models (e.g. Aristotelian, geocentric or big-bang cosmologies) and explain how these models (and abrupt changes from one to another) impact the literature of the period.  Students will explain how physics allows us to answer questions about our universe.

(3) Students will integrate knowledge, experience, abilities and interdisciplinary perspectives of cosmology and worldviews as represented in physics and astronomy on the one hand and literature on the other. They will develop the ability to analyze, synthesize, and critically evaluate cosmology and world views in terms of human values, and see how the physics of cosmology affects our cultural worldview and vice versa. 

(4) Students will demonstrate an ability to: discuss issues, provide critical analysis of themes, and produce cogent writing (at least ten pages) on the ideas exhibited in both physics/astronomy and literature, and how these interact in their impact on our physical and cultural views of our place in the universe, and our human values.

(5) Students will be able to prepare a written paper that includes some thoughtful demonstration of an awareness of diversity (cultural, ethnic, or social) as a factor affecting cosmology and world views. Students are encouraged to study cultures other than our own in preparing their final project.