The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Program in Southwest Studies
The 2005 Summer Institute in Southwest Studies 

Cultural Astronomy of the Southwest
Professors Claire R. Farrer and Richard Hilt, Directors

 This summer’s Southwest Studies Summer Institute is titled “Cultural Astronomy of the Southwest.” The Institute, which begins June 6 and runs through July 15, combines tenets of astronomy with its expression in Ancestral Puebloan and contemporary Southwestern Indian people.  No advanced mathematics is required; the mathematics necessary will be taught as part of the course.

Objectives are to teach a variety of astronomical precepts and then ground them in Southwestern cultural realities; among these are the following:  Western and terrestrial and celestial coordinate systems; horizon astronomy; calendrical constructions and methods of commensuration of lunar and solar systems; finding north (using a stick, string, and a rock); predictions of horizon events (e.g. sunrises); history and development of Western astronomy; knowledge of Western and Southwestern Inidan people's constellations and the myths associated with the constellations.  We then move into a consideration of the cultural correlates between the celestial vault and cultural interpretations of Southwestern Indians, both Ancestral Puebloan and contemporary people of the Southwest; in this section we include the built environment, rock art, ceramics and ceremonials.  We accomplish the objectives through hands-on experiences, lectures demonstrations, reading, field trips, and selected computer resources.  Lectures will be by both instructors as well as individuals from specific reservations who will speak about their own culture's sky/star knowledge and its usage in contemporary times.  Field trip, both in the local area and to astronomically significant sites, are an integral part of the course.  

Program Fee: $400, includes lodging and entry fees for field trips (including seven nights out of town).  Students are responsible for transportation and meals.  

Prerequisite:  Experienced Teachers.  Enrollment is limited to 32.  Course meets on some Sundays, depending upon the astronomical calendar.  

For more literature and to apply, please phone Summer Session at (719) 389-6655, or visit www.ColoradoCollege.edu/SummerSession

For further details about the course description, please phone the Hulbert Center at (719) 389-6249

SWSSI Alumni Book Club!

The Hulbert Center for Southwestern Studies Book Discussion Group - meets two times an academic year (normally in October, January, and April) to discuss a book or books about the Southwest or closely related areas.  This group has been especially popular with SWSSI alumni as well as a number of people within the college and local community.  
http://www.coloradocollege.edu/Dept/SW/swsbookchats/bookchats.htm