Learn the fundamentals of climate change science, from evidence to future scenarios, in this accessible course for all.
Learn the fundamentals of climate change science, from evidence to future scenarios, in this accessible course for all.
Discover the essential concepts of climate change science in this beginner-friendly course designed for everyone, regardless of scientific background. Over four modules, you'll explore the evidence for climate change, understand the earth's climate system, learn about the drivers of climate change, and examine future climate scenarios. This course empowers you with the knowledge to engage meaningfully with one of the most critical challenges facing humanity today, providing a solid foundation for personal and professional action on climate change.
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English
What you'll learn
Describe the observational evidence for climate change
Explain the physical science basis of climate change
Identify the drivers and trends of greenhouse emissions
Explain how the climate could change in the future
Understand the Earth's energy balance and its role in climate change
Analyze the human impact on atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
2 Hours PreRecorded video
4 assignments
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
FullTime access
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There are 4 modules in this course
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to climate change science, designed for individuals with no prior scientific background. Over four modules, students explore the evidence for climate change, the fundamentals of the Earth's climate system, the drivers of climate change (focusing on carbon dioxide, methane, and aerosols), and potential future climate scenarios. The course begins by examining the observational evidence for global warming and its historical context. It then delves into the Earth's energy balance and how changes in this balance lead to climate change. Students learn about the human impact on atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations and the global carbon cycle. The course concludes by exploring various future emission scenarios and their potential impacts on global temperature. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to reflect on how this knowledge can be applied in their personal lives and careers to address climate change.
Evidence of a Warming Planet
Module 1 · 2 Hours to complete
The Climate System
Module 2 · 1 Hours to complete
Drivers of Climate Change: Carbon Dioxide, Methane, and Aerosols
Module 3 · 1 Hours to complete
Future Climate Change Scenarios
Module 4 · 2 Hours to complete
Fee Structure
Payment options
Financial Aid
Instructor
Professor of Environmental Chemistry and Senior Associate Dean of Research and Doctoral Programs
Prasad Kasibhatla is a Professor of Environmental Chemistry and the Senior Associate Dean of Research and Doctoral Programs at Duke University. He earned both his master's and doctoral degrees from the University of Kentucky, where he developed a strong foundation in environmental science. His research focuses on understanding the chemical composition of the atmosphere, particularly the impacts of natural and anthropogenic factors on environmental systems. Kasibhatla employs numerical models alongside remote and in-situ measurements to explore these dynamics. He is actively involved in various academic committees and initiatives at Duke, contributing to the university's strategic planning and policy development. Additionally, he teaches "Climate Science for Everyone" on Coursera, aiming to enhance public understanding of climate issues.
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Frequently asked questions
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