deletions | additions       diff --git a/motivation.tex b/motivation.tex  index b19d2c5..62fa5a2 100644  --- a/motivation.tex  +++ b/motivation.tex 
...
Data analysis and numerical computation are now ubiquitous in astronomy; undergraduate curricula have been slower to train students in a systematic fashion in these skills. At Michigan State University, astronomy students are required to complete a senior thesis. We have been dissatisfied with the preparation of students for longer, open-ended research projects, such as that of a typical two-semester research project. Moreover, astronomy, like other STEM fields, is increasingly collaborative. Skills such as communication and project management are an essential component of a student's education.   Another motivation for redesigning \subsection{About AST 208}  AST 208 isthat this course is  the first rigorous course in the astronomy major. The Its  prerequisite course, AST 207, serves as more of a broad survey over the entire field, whereas AST 208 contains a laboratory (observing) component and explores in more depth planetary science. According to the listing of courses, AST 208 covers  \begin{quote}  Origin and nature of the solar system. Planets of the solar system and other star systems. Determination of time and celestial coordinates. Astronomical instruments and observational methods.  \end{quote}  Traditionally the course followed its title---\emph{Planets and Telescopes}---with the lecture devoted to planetary science and the lab devoted to observing. We felt that a tighter integration of the lecture and lab would serve the students better. Because AST 208 is the gateway into the astronomy major, it provides an opportunity to develop some core skills that can be developed further in the junior/senior level courses AST 304, \emph{Stars}, and AST 308, \emph{Galaxies}.