Discipline: Physics
Subcategory: STEM Science and Mathematics Education
Antonino Cucchiara - University of the Virgin Islands
Teaching Astronomy and Astrophysics topics and performing cutting edge research is often linked to the availability of expensive resources and faculty time. The kick-off of a newly approved B.S. in Physics with concentration in Astronomy at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) represents a unique opportunity to craft the teaching and undergraduate research to the most modern and highest standards not just in one of the only seven HBCUs with a 4-year physics program, but in other small-medium size institutions like UVI. The acquisition of state-of-the art equipment, including the STARLAB inflatable planetarium and commercial telescopes, have been instrumental to expose UVI students to modern observational astronomy techniques, acquired observing skills, and face research-like struggle of top level research. In this work we summarize the current status of this effort and the outcomes within the context of the physics program as well as in the broader STEM workforce development.
Funder Acknowledgement(s): HBCU-UP TIP #1719265
Faculty Advisor: None Listed,