Video Cassette
Below are four video clips taken from the HOA video cassette.
The HOA Video Cassette consists of four segments. The first is a four-minute introduction featuring teachers who have used this curriculum with their students. They discuss the valuable ways that variable star observation has helped their students acquire appreciation for and knowledge of the scientific enterprise. The video's three main segments are approximately 20 minutes each. They are entitled Backyard Astronomy, Variable Stars, and How to Observe Variable Stars.
Backyard Astronomy introduces the idea that you can observe and learn a great deal about the universe from your own backyard. Variable Stars gives a brief introduction to the nature of variable stars. How to Observe Variable Stars shows the process involved in observing, data collecting, and analysis of variable stars. These videos can be shown in any sequence and at any time during the course of the curriculum. Two real high school students Mary and Chris attend a "Star Party" where they meet other amateur astronomers. Mary also introduces Chris to the fundamentals of astronomy and variable star observing; and they visit AAVSO Headquarters to see how their observations are being used by the scientific community. The videos include graphical and animated demonstrations, and lots of commentary by amateur and professional astronomers on the enjoyment and scientific value to be found in making observations of variable stars.
