Introduction
A MasterClass from the world’s most recognized astrophysicist might be just what you’re searching for if you want to improve your critical thinking abilities.
The MasterClass with Neil deGrasse Tyson seeks to teach you how to see the world through the prism of basic scientific ideas. So you can better sift through information, manage prejudice, and articulate your thoughts.
Neil deGrasse Tyson has won 21 honorary doctorates, the Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication, and has made so many media appearances that he is the most well-known astrophysicist on the planet.
But, despite his international recognition, Tyson has his detractors. And, for all of its virtues, his MasterClass is not without flaws.
Is the MasterClass with Neil deGrasse Tyson suitable for you? What do you hope to get out of it? Is your time and effort really worth it? In this Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass review, I’ll answer some of these questions.
Overview on Neil’s MasterClass
As previously stated, Neil deGrasse Tyson’s MasterClass includes themes such as thinking like a scientist, communicating with science, and scientific reasoning. He also brings up the topic of scientific literacy towards the conclusion.
Neil discusses the challenges of learning and teaches scientific thinking and how to overcome them. The teaching style was excellent and provided me with a thorough understanding of the subject.
Because the flow of portions was precisely managed, there were no misleading teachings throughout the course. Taking this MasterClass felt like joining a science club, to be honest. Literally.
The MasterClass had 13 courses with a total viewing duration of up to 2 hours. As a bonus, the instructor gives some pointers on how to communicate successfully.
Aside from the learning, the MasterClass also includes PDF prepared worksheets, which made it much simpler for me as a student because the workbook included the instructor’s biography, brief course notes, and a useful glossary section.
This MasterClass is for anyone who wishes to learn about scientific reasoning from one of the world’s most accomplished scientific communicators. Also, anybody who is intellectually interested, wants to improve their critical thinking abilities or wants to improve their communication skills.
Those with prior academic knowledge in the sciences or social sciences will find it less acceptable. However, there is still a lot to learn about conveying complicated ideas.
About Neil deGrasse Tyson
Neil deGrasse Tyson is the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth and Space, as well as a well-known astrophysicist, planetary scientist, and, most importantly, scientific communicator.
His objective is to make science more accessible and fascinating, and his ability to interact with people from all walks of life has piqued people’s interest all across the world.
Tyson’s success can be seen in his best-selling books, television series, podcasts, and tremendous social media presence.
As are the countless prizes he has gotten for his ability to wow the audience with science’s wonders.
The NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal, the Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication, and having an asteroid named after him in recognition of his contributions to public knowledge of the cosmos are among the awards he has received.
Tyson distills his thirty years of experience as a scientific advocate into this MasterClass, giving you the tools you need to teach your mind to think differently. I also recommend seeing the Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass trailer if you haven’t previously.
Tracing back to his educational history, Tyson published many books about space, evolution, and scientific thought after graduating from Harvard University with a bachelor’s degree in physics. Astrophysics for People in a Hurry and Letter from an Astrophysicist may be known to anyone who has followed his career.
Tyson’s work was further lauded, including the NASA Distinguished Public Service Award in 1994 and the American Humanist Association Isaac Asimov Science Award in 2009.
Tyson has been in a number of films and television shows as a result of his ‘big-brained’ reputation. The Big Bang Theory, Gravity Falls, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Family Guy, and The Simpsons are among the shows in which she has appeared.
About MasterClass
MasterClass is one of the most widely used online education platforms.
It stands out from the competition for two reasons: its teachers have earned global celebrity status as a result of their achievements in their fields of specialization, and the production qualities are of movie quality.
The MasterClass principle is straightforward: everyone deserves access to greatness and the opportunity to learn from the greatest.
“I’m going to share with you the methods and tools of science that enable us to go from ignorance of what is going on to an understanding of what is going on, and ultimately leading to an established objective truth,” Tyson has made a commitment in this MasterClass.
The MasterClass by Neil deGrasse Tyson joins courses by Chris Hadfield, Gordon Ramsay, Brandon McMillan, Hans Zimmer, Paul Krugman, Jane Goodall, and Martin Scorsese, among others.
Who is this MasterClass by Neil deGrasse Tyson made for?
You are incorrect if you believe that this MasterClass will bring advanced science topics to the table. This course is not just about science, but also about learning science.
The MasterClass is wonderfully designed in such a manner that anyone with even a rudimentary background of science may learn more since Neil has simplified down difficult theories into simple terms. At the very least, the MasterClass was beneficial.
That is why I recommend that everyone take this course since it explains everything about science in an easy-to-understand manner and teaches how to interact with it using reasoning.
Anyone who wants an introduction to scientific thinking, is intellectually interested, wants to enhance their critical thinking skills, wants to communicate more effectively, and is a Neil deGrasse Tyson fan, in my opinion, will benefit from this program.
How are the lessons in this MasterClass?
The course has a smooth touch of classifying the courses in a way where there is no confusion or imbalance in the flow of learning and comprehension. Throughout the MasterClass, Tyson made sure to share a hint or two.
Despite the fact that the course is about scientific communication, I noted that it did not cover the same material again. He went into great detail and attempted to simplify key terminologies in layman’s terms.
It was quite beneficial. It would take me longer to describe the full MasterClass, so let me briefly summarize the highlights of the course so you can get a sense of the MasterClass.
Inside the Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass
MasterClass by Neil deGrasse Tyson has a running time of 2 hours and 14 minutes.
It includes 13 lessons that range in length from 7 to 15 minutes, access to an online community of fellow students, and a 24-page workbook that includes a short biography of Neil deGrasse Tyson, a summary of the MasterClass, and a glossary of terms to help you keep track of all of the concepts covered in the class.
Neil’s MasterClass is organized into six sections: Meet your instructor, Scientific thinking, Obstacles to scientific thinking, Scientific measurement, Communicating science, and The future of our world.
Meet your instructor
What you know is not as important as how you think
“I can guarantee you, that the most important moments of your life are decided not by what you know, but how you think”
Neil deGrasse Tyson introduces himself and the cosmic viewpoint that drives all he says and does against a breathtaking backdrop of visuals from space.
He explains how scientific thinking can affect every element of your life, as well as what he hopes you will take away from this MasterClass.
This is how to: remain restless in your search for the truth, retrain your brain to ask the proper questions, successfully share what you discover, and maintain amazement and wonder for the world you live in.
The idea is to teach your mind to view the world in new ways.
Scientific thinking
The frontier of science
A basic hypothesis is the starting point for all big discoveries. Neil deGrasse emphasizes the significance of developing your own strong theory when it comes to comprehending the unknown. Students will learn how to think clearly when presented with unfamiliar subjects or issues in just 7 minutes.
In this Sneak Peek MasterClass, Tyson explains, “I’m talking about blunders that no one ever thought you could make.” “Those are going to be manufactured on the frontier.” You may be quite confident you’re no longer on the frontier the day you stop making errors.”
Tyson explains the exhilarating, yet terrifying, sense of being on the precipice between the known and the unknown in this passage.
He also goes through some crucial definitions for phrases that you’ll hear throughout the MasterClass. These include what he refers to as “badass” science, the difference between hypotheses and theories, and a practical understanding of the scientific method.
The scientific method
Yep, even the most skilled astrophysicists rely on this elementary-school concept. But don’t worry, it won’t be an hour-long presentation. Neil deGrasse Tyson shares a fascinating example of how The Scientific Method was used to unearth some world-changing discoveries (including William Herschel’s discovery of planet Uranus), condensed into a quick 14-minute clip.
“The scientific approach is to do whatever it takes—whatever it takes—not to be fooled into believing something is real that isn’t, or into thinking something isn’t true that is,” Tyson explains in this MasterClass session.
Tyson clarifies the scientific process by presenting three of his favorite instances of its use.
Each one had a very different conclusion.
His everyday storytelling approach allows us to understand how scientists have used what we currently know to: frame new questions, make predictions, and arrive to three very diverse and startling findings — one of which turned out to be completely incorrect.
I liked how Tyson took the effort to demonstrate how science may go astray. And it’s unclear how or why this occurred.
I appreciated his humility, which made him appear even more approachable, when he asked for our sympathy for scientists on the border.
The connection to the workbook’s glossary of terminology was very appealing to me. I’ve evaluated a few MasterClasses that don’t have this function, so I was glad to find it in place for this one — despite the fact that I’m not a scientist!
The fact that Tyson’s explanations were accompanied with animations was also extremely beneficial to my comprehension.
Obstacles to scientific thinking
Be a skeptic
Staying uninformed is never a good idea. Students will learn the importance of being interested and open-minded as a result of this Sneak Peek. This short, 12-minute snippet details the importance of asking questions and staying skeptical.
This part begins with Tyson clarifying what informed skepticism is, what it isn’t, and how to apply it so that we can: ask the appropriate questions, avoid being misled, and identify when genuine evidence is provided.
Then he goes on to discuss components of human nature that might obstruct our ability to see the truth. Our prejudices.
This is the first stage in analyzing any scientific evidence, according to Neil deGrasse Tyson.“If you are rejecting what the person says, you didn’t give yourself a chance to probe whether or not what the person said could be true.
So what you need to do at this point is start asking questions.” the scientist says of closed-minded ideas about healing crystals. “So what you need to do at this point is start asking questions.”
Cognitive bias, cultural bias and our systems of beliefs
Cognitive bias is an unavoidable component of the human experience.
Tyson outlines many prejudices that might block our quest for truth in these three teachings. The want to feel unique, the desire to perceive patterns, not being wired to think about probability, the impact of culture on beliefs and assumptions, and personal, religious, and political opinions are just a few of them.
Tyson, as usual, gives instances of how these biases might (and have) obstruct critical thinking. And how they obstruct your ability to recognize the objective truth that contradicts them.
He concludes this part by advising us to be aware of our biases at all times and to be prepared to let go of long-held beliefs and notions in the face of facts.
“The better connected you are to what’s objectively true the more likely you will be able to make decisions that benefit you and those you care for.”
Scientific measurement: calculating the incalculable
Maintain your composure. This 8-minute lecture does not include any arithmetic. As Neil deGrasse Tyson describes the widespread misconceptions between the two, students will be astonished to realize that there is a discernible difference between accuracy and precision.
When discussing this field of research, the astrophysicist discusses the importance of Scientific Measurement, which he considers to be his favorite topic.
“Every measurement ever made, and ever will be made, has uncertainties built into it. You may see that term in books called measurement error. But it’s not an error in the sense that you made a mistake,” Tyson explains in this MasterClass.
He explains how all measurements are approximations and the distinctions between precision and accuracy in science using everyday situations.
You’ll also discover why a second hasn’t lasted exactly a second since 1972. We only know this because of scientific measurement.
Communicating Science
It’s Not Enough to Be Right
Tyson emphasizes the importance of acting on and communicating the truth in this section. He considers it a form of active duty.
It’s not an easy task.
Especially now, when people’s views are so divided. But here, he reveals some of the techniques he uses to communicate successfully as a public educator.
“It’s not good enough to be right, you also have to be effective”
Preparing for your audience
Spending considerable time researching your audience, according to Tyson, is the beginning point for good communication. You should learn everything you can about their demographics, possible belief systems and political leanings, present levels of comprehension, comedy proclivity, and attention spans.
Understanding your audience is essential for effective communication. Neil deGrasse Tyson discusses the importance of having a sense of audience perception while giving a speech in this 12-minute video. By simply understanding a few important demographic statistics, students will learn how to construct a convincing and effective case.
To assist you in customizing your message, pitching it at the appropriate level, using acceptable language, and just making it simpler for people to grasp your message.
He offers a plethora of practical advice for working with a variety of groups, from youngsters to ‘hipsters’ to elders.
And he gives a fun example of how comparison and comedy may be used to deflate opposition if you know your audience and have done your homework.
“So if you’re going to tell anybody anything—either an individual, a small group, a large group, doesn’t matter—you have to understand your audience. You have to. Otherwise, it’s two ships passing in the night,” Tyson warns within the Preparing for Your Audience MasterClass.
Communication tactics and inspiring curiosity
Tyson outlines “things from his utility belt” that he employs to connect with his audience in this session.
They cover topics such as how and why to use humour, how to use relatable examples and analogies, how to create and use soundbites, how to use non-verbal communication cues, how to stimulate curiosity, how to differentiate levels of detail depending on audience and context, and how to leave your audience thinking and wanting more.
He also offers suggestions for reflecting on your performance and determining how you might improve your effectiveness in the future.
These are practical techniques that you may use in your professional and personal life to get your point through. They are backed up with real-world examples. Both in terms of productivity and in terms of completeness.
This 17-minute MasterClass, which is a continuation of the last course, offers a few pointers on how to communicate successfully. Neil deGrasse Tyson provides a few nuggets on how to attract an audience based on his public speaking expertise.
Using comedy to start a discussion is one example of this. “Humor matters. I think people like smiling. They like laughing even more. If you can get them to do that while they’re learning, you’ve got it. You can feed them everything,” Tyson shares within this MasterClass.
You know you’ve given a fantastic speech when your audience is inspired, motivated, and eager for more. Neil deGrasse Tyson hammers home the necessity of piqueing people’ curiosity in a fast 8-minute MasterClass. Students will learn how to turn an ordinary speech into a powerful and persuasive argument.
Tyson states, “The more you can stoke curiosity, the more you can live a life, reaping the benefits of all that other fellow human beings have worked hard to discover.”
The future of our world
Tyson outlines why he feels society cannot grow without scientific thought and excellent communication as he says farewell.
He thanks you for attending him and encourages you to consider what he’s said as only the beginning of your search for truth, and to “go forth… as a shepherd of civilization.”
To round out the Neil de Grasse Tyson MasterClass, the renowned astronomer offers a few key takeaways for students to consider. This is mostly a wrap-up of what has been covered in this 13-course session, such as scientific procedure and identifying prejudice.
These components, according to Tyson, are critical to society’s growth. “The interesting thing about an objective truth is that it’s true no matter what. No matter who you are, what you believe in, where you live, how old you are, an objective truth transcends it all.”
What I Liked About the Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass
A world-renowned astronomer and professor instructs on scientific fundamentals
Tyson is more than equipped to offer a MasterClass on scientific fundamentals as an authority on all things astronomical, from exploding stars to the structure of the Milky Way.
Furthermore, because of his lifetime commitment to making science accessible to the general people, he uses comedy, analogy, and relevant examples to give the instruction. All of the teaching tactics were excellent, and I found the session to be a rewarding learning experience.
A prominent public speaker offers practical advice on how to improve your communication tactics
Tyson’s ability to express difficult ideas is what has given him such a large following on social media, with tens of millions of followers.
As a result, it’s fantastic that he offers some of his tricks and suggestions in this MasterClass. These strategies are useful for educators, corporate executives, and anybody else who wishes to enthral and motivate a crowd.
A large number of scientific examples are provided, all of which are thoroughly explained
Using relevant and suitable examples is one of Tyson’s communication strategies.
This expertise is demonstrated in action throughout this MasterClass through his usage of excellent content. Even complicated concepts like gravity and relativity are given in a context that makes them more approachable and less daunting.
The use of animations, stills, charts, and other images helps to reinforce understanding.
Cinematic production values
The outstanding production elements of Tyson’s lesson, like all MasterClasses, make it an engaging experience.
The subject of this session, on the other hand, allowed for some very amazing photography and cinematography, which greatly enhanced the learning experience.
Useful workbook with a glossary of terms
In previous evaluations, I’ve frequently criticized the lack of a glossary of specialty words in a single, clearly accessible location in workbooks.
As a result, I was glad to learn that this functionality was available for this class.
How Much Does MasterClass Cost?
The best part about MasterClass is that Neil deGrasse Tyson’s course is simply one of 90 (and counting) that you may take after you join up. MasterClass is an annual subscription that requires a yearly pre-authorized payment, according to this Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass review.
The MasterClass all-access membership gives you full access to all classes (current and future). MasterClass provides classes in a variety of subjects, including Arts & Entertainment, Sports & Gaming, Cooking, Business, Science & Technology, Music, and more, all taught by industry professionals.
The MasterClass membership costs $180 and is invoiced yearly on the date of enrolment. Each class has around 20 lessons, as well as a PDF workbook. You’ll receive access to their smartphone and television applications, as well as offline courses, a member-only newsletter, and the ability to connect with other MasterClass members from around the world.
What Do Customers Think?
Put on your critical thinking hat. This MasterClass by Neil deGrasse Tyson review revealed a resoundingly favorable reaction to this unique online course. Students were to remark on the professor’s thought-provoking insights on numerous themes, such as prejudice and public speaking, with a great score of 4.7 stars out of 5.
“These lessons are very informative. The method of thinking which is required in this field is often either forgotten or deemed unimportant in today’s education, which has led to a wave of students finding the subject hard or boring,” one student wrote for the Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass.
Independent websites appreciated Tyson’s inspirational thought process when it comes to science and good communication, such as Education Speaks. As a consequence, this lesson received an outstanding 4.5/5 star rating. According to the online magazine Become a Writer Today, the author enjoyed his training, which helped him break down linear thinking.
“Neil deGrasse Tyson´s masterclass is a highly stimulating course that will make you think differently. It provides an insight into the latest scientific findings and astronomy,” via a statement made by EducationSpeaks.org.
This Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass review identified a few flaws that prompted some students to drop out. The sessions were a little difficult to follow for several bloggers. According to a handful of physics professors, the course simply covered the basics and didn’t go into depth on certain significant scientific issues.
Is Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass Worth It?
To grasp the Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass, you don’t need to be interested in science, math, or space. Each lesson is highly flexible, since his lessons may be applied to a variety of subjects.
This 13-session course focuses on critical thinking, which is a crucial life skill to have in any field. It entails recognizing cognitive and cultural bias, establishing a hypothesis, and gaining effective communication skills.
Tyson is an interesting educator because students can sense his enthusiasm for science and space exploration. He also provides intriguing case studies and examples that are quite simple to comprehend on a basic level.
Overall, this MasterClass of Neil deGrasse Tyson worth is definitely on par. The review strongly suggests enrolling in this course if you’re searching for an inspirational watch with no prerequisites.
How long does a MasterClass subscription last?
Your subscription to Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass may continue as long as you like, according to this Neil deGrasse Tyson MasterClass review. The day you sign up for an annual membership, your subscription costs are automatically renewed.
Final Verdict
If you’re a fan of Neil deGrasse Tyson or simply enjoy learning new things, you’ll enjoy this MasterClass.
It’s especially appealing if you want to improve your ability to not just think critically and deliberately, but also to articulate and defend a point more effectively.
This course isn’t for you if you’re looking for an in-depth philosophical debate of scientific ideas.
I believe you will benefit if you enjoyed what you saw in the trailer and are at least moderately interested in what makes Tyson tick.
Neil deGrasse Tyson has spent three decades as a powerful proponent of science. He is an expert in his field, but he is also a remarkable communicator. That is why he is the most well-known astrophysicist in the planet.
This training was quite beneficial to me. As a teacher, I learned several really useful practical teaching strategies that have completely changed the way I present and defend an argument.
There are also over a hundred additional MasterClasses to sample on the site. Others who would be appropriate for this MasterClass are Chris Hadfield on space exploration, Paul Krugman on economics, and Neil Gaiman on narrative.
MasterClass also provides a refund policy, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if you don’t like it.