Discover how mass extinctions shaped Earth's history, altered evolution, and influenced modern biodiversity patterns.
Discover how mass extinctions shaped Earth's history, altered evolution, and influenced modern biodiversity patterns.
This comprehensive course delves into the fascinating world of extinctions, covering prehistoric mass extinctions, human-influenced extinctions, and potential future scenarios. Led by top instructor Anthony J. Martin, the course examines the five major mass extinctions of Earth's past, their causes, and their significance in the history of life. Students will explore the development of paleontology and geological studies, gaining insights into how our understanding of extinctions has evolved over time. The curriculum covers topics such as the role of extinctions in evolution, the impact of human activities on biodiversity, and current conservation efforts. Through engaging lectures, readings, and assessments, students will develop a deep understanding of extinction events and their implications for our planet's future.
4.8
(132 ratings)
10,086 already enrolled
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English
What you'll learn
Understand the difference between mass extinctions and background extinctions
Explain the role of extinctions in evolutionary processes
Describe the five major mass extinctions of Earth's past and their probable causes
Analyze the development of paleontology and geological studies over time
Evaluate the impact of human activities on recent and ongoing extinctions
Compare prehistoric mass extinctions with current biodiversity loss
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
4.75 Hours PreRecorded video
9 assignments
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FullTime access
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There are 5 modules in this course
This course provides a comprehensive overview of extinctions throughout Earth's history, from prehistoric mass extinctions to current biodiversity loss. The curriculum is structured into five modules, each focusing on different aspects of extinction events and their study. Students begin by exploring the concept of extinctions and their role in evolution. The course then delves into the history of human awareness of extinctions, tracing the development of paleontology and geological studies. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to examining the five major mass extinctions of the pre-human past, their causes, and impacts. The latter part of the course focuses on more recent extinctions, including those influenced by human activities, and explores current conservation efforts and future predictions. Throughout the modules, students engage with various theories, case studies, and contemporary issues related to biodiversity loss and conservation.
Introduction to Extinctions: Getting Started with the End
Module 1 · 2 Hours to complete
Human Awareness of Extinctions: A History
Module 2 · 2 Hours to complete
Mass Extinctions of the Pre-Human Past
Module 3 · 3 Hours to complete
Extinctions of Pre-History & Near-Present (Pleistocene Epoch & Late Holocene Epoch)
Module 4 · 3 Hours to complete
Extinctions Since European Colonization & Going into the Future
Module 5 · 4 Hours to complete
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4.8 course rating
132 ratings
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