It should be noted that almost all astronomy courses now effectively use Web-assisted instruction. Some courses have optional tutorials, variously computer based, backyard astronomy or using our telescopes. We propose to offer more laboratory activities for students in our introductory courses and will need additional TA support for this initiative (§ 3). Currently, at all levels, we give students the opportunity to use either a small telescope or the powerful David Dunlap Observatory (DDO) facility to directly observe the night sky. We are contemplating offering access to remote observatories to a select (elite) group of specialist students (§ 3) in upper years.
Most of the 1800 students (1000 FCEs) enrolled in Astronomy are in our first and second-year introductory courses with about 200 students per section. These courses play a large role in Scientific Literacy (§ 3). Two of these courses fill several sections before the end of the registration period. Based on past experience, opening two extra sections in response to the demand would result conservatively in another 320 students (160 FCE). Student contact will be maintained with increased numbers of TAs which will be drawn from our increased numbers of graduate students.
Our 199Y/299Y seminar/research courses will be expanded to meet demand; activities consistent with writing committee recommendations (and scientific literacy) are being enhanced (§ 3).
Enrollment in our courses in the major and specialist programs will grow substantially because of our engagement in the popular ETP program (§ 2.2.4) and agreement to teach the upper level courses for UTAS Astronomy and Physics students (§ 2.2.3).