AST3101H Module: Ethics and Practice in Astronomy

Specialized Topics Module: Ethics and Practice in Astronomy

Course Summary
The ideas behind what it means to be a scientist and/or astronomer can often be at odds with
historical and ongoing experiences within these communities. The everyday duties of many
astronomers also often involve issues not taught in graduate school, including mentorship,
peer review, conflicts of interest, research ethics, applying for funding, and more.

This course aims to introduce students to a wide range of topics related to the ethics in and practice of “astronomy” as it functions today. Topics to be covered by the course will be decided on jointly by interested students and the Instructor prior to the start of the course (subject to the availability and interest of invited experts) and will be updated each time the course is offered. These may cover a wide range of areas from settincommunity funding priorities to grant proposal reviews to Indigenous land use.

Course Goals
The three primary goals for the course are to provide students with:
1. An introduction to exploring, researching, and discussing important but sensitive issues
with their peers, local experts, and/or those in positions of authority early in their
careers.
2. Opportunities to discuss how to respond to different ethical scenarios.
3. Experience designing lesson plans, developing educational resources, and leading classroom activities.

Since this course is primarily discussion-based and deals with important but sensitive topics,
all students, the Instructor, and all invited guests will be expected to maintain a
safe, welcoming environment during discussions and be respectful of each others’ views.
Note that this course is meant to supplement, rather than replace, other resources in the
Department and elsewhere. Students are encouraged to continue looking into issues discussed
in class and follow-up with invited experts and the Instructor if interested.