Bipedalism: The Science of Upright Walking
Investigate the biological development and biomechanics of bipedal locomotion in human evolutionary history.
Investigate the biological development and biomechanics of bipedal locomotion in human evolutionary history.
Delve into the fascinating world of human bipedalism in this interdisciplinary course that examines why and how humans walk on two legs. Investigate the mechanics of upright walking and compare it to bipedal locomotion in other animals. Journey through millions of years of human evolution to understand the origins and development of this unique form of movement. Explore the process of learning to walk and the trade-offs associated with bipedalism. This course combines insights from anthropology, biomechanics, anatomy, evolution, and paleontology to provide a comprehensive understanding of this quintessentially human characteristic.
Instructors:
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What you'll learn
Understand the mechanics of human upright walking and its uniqueness among mammals
Explore the evolutionary origins of bipedalism through fossil evidence
Compare human bipedalism with bipedal locomotion in other animals
Learn how scientists reconstruct the locomotion of extinct species
Examine the process of learning to walk in human development
Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of bipedal locomotion
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
PreRecorded video
Graded assignments, exams
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
Limited Access access
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Module Description
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of human bipedalism, examining its evolution, mechanics, and implications. The curriculum is structured to provide students with a multifaceted understanding of upright walking, drawing from various scientific disciplines. Key topics include the biomechanics of bipedal locomotion, comparative studies with other animals, the fossil record of human evolution, the developmental process of learning to walk, and the evolutionary trade-offs associated with bipedalism. The course emphasizes the scientific method, teaching students how evidence is used to test hypotheses about human evolution. By collaborating with the Smithsonian Institution, the course provides access to cutting-edge research and resources in the field of human origins and evolution.
Fee Structure
Instructors
Chair and Professor of Anthropology
Jeremy "Jerry" DeSilva is a paleoanthropologist specializing in early human locomotion and foot anatomy. He authored *First Steps* and advocates for science education, living in Norwich, VT with his family.
3 Courses
Expert in Documentary Filmmaking and Video Production
Sawyer Broadley serves as a video professional at Dartmouth College's Media Production Group, bringing over a decade of experience in video production. After graduating from Dartmouth College in 2008 with a BA in English and Film Studies, he established himself as a versatile filmmaker, working as producer, videographer, and editor. His notable work includes co-directing and editing the documentary "Change the Subject" (2019), which follows Dartmouth students challenging anti-immigrant language in Library of Congress subject headings. Based in Massachusetts, he combines his professional videography work with personal interests in soft goods design, cycling, reading, and tea, while focusing on creating content that drives positive social impact through collaboration with educators, scientists, and businesses.
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