Project CLEA: Contemporary Laboratory Experiences in Astronomy

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Project CLEA (Contemporary Laboratory Experiences in Astronomy) develops laboratory exercises in astronomy. The project focuses on the development of laboratory exercises to complement the existing suite of materials for Project CLEA . The new exercises are (1) Radial velocities of binary stars and the search for Extrasolar Planets, and (2) Cepheid Variables and the Cosmic Distance Scale. These exercises consist of PC-based simulations of astronomical observing techniques, using real astrophysical data, along with student workbooks and technical manuals for teachers. In addition a third exercise, from those already developed for the PC by Project CLEA, is adapted for delivery via an interactive Web-based application.Evaluation of the curricular impact and pedagogical effectiveness of these materials is conducted at a diverse group of institutions (Universities, 4-year colleges, Two Year Colleges, and High Schools), by observations by an external evaluator and through the analysis of on-line questionnaires. Project CLEA materials are available on a dedicated website (http://www.gettysburg.edu/academics /physics/clea/lam.html), and are disseminated further at workshops at national and regional teachers' meetings.The materials, including an entire suite of a dozen exercises developed over the past 8 years, are available as a package as an end-product of this project, distributed either by a commercial publisher or by a non-profit educational organization.