Stargazing and Critical Thinking: A Look at GSP Astronomy
Written By: Alex Board
Rico Tyler’s astronomy class is a very special part of the Governor’s Scholars Program. From late-night observing sessions to day-long field trips, the scholars placed in the focus area of “Our Universe” have not only learned about stars, but also about using new perspectives to think more expansively.
Classroom Style
The observing session for the Astronomy Focus Area took place on Friday, July 18th, and the classroom activities did not disappoint. Rico began with a lighthearted reading of the Racer Report, then dove deep into a questionnaire session. He asked the scholars, “Where does data come from?” “How do we form questions?” and “How do we find the true answers to our questions?”
While the scholars attempted to answer with thoughtfulness and wit, Rico was able to counter argue their statements time and time again. This is at the core of his teaching method. Rather than relying on lectures or worksheets, he encourages students to think independently and form their own conclusions based on the questions provided. His thought-provoking approach leaves scholars feeling insightful, but sometimes a little confused.
Daily Lesson
The day’s main activity was learning how to measure stars. Using a Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram, the scholars identified the temperature, color, magnitude, and brightness of various stars. This hands-on exercise introduced them to a fundamental technique in the field of astronomy.
Then, as he often does, Rico took the class into the hallway for another lesson. Using a stretchy black sheet and a heavy stone, he demonstrated a model of gravity and spatial distortion. He emphasized that while gravity explains why objects fall, its true nature remains largely mysterious. This tied back to his earlier questions about data and how facts are determined, prompting scholars once again to question their assumptions and prior knowledge.
Not Your Average Class
Rico Tyler is an extraordinary teacher at GSP. Not only has he been here longer than any other faculty member, teaching scholars since 1984, he also adds something special to his classroom each year. Every summer, Rico is accompanied by a teaching fellow, typically a college student shadowing him to learn about his methods.
This year, teaching fellow Nathaniel has fully immersed himself in the GSP experience. When asked about the class, he shared:
“I enjoy learning a lot about classroom management and lesson plans.”
It’s no secret that the astronomy focus area is a unique group to be part of, and the scholars have enjoyed the experience immensely. Here’s what some of them had to say when asked about their favorite part of the class:
“My favorite part is observing and seeing everything we learn about outside in the sky.”
— Isabella Sloan
“Rico really gets us thinking.”
— Jerry Chen
“My favorite part about this class is using what we learn here outside in the real world.”
— Kadence Pataluna
Edited by Josiah Self