This course introduces you to the five mass extinctions of the pre-human past, their causes and significance to the history of life on earth, and the current mass extinction happening during our time. We’ll also explore the history of paleontology and geological study and review the key players that influenced the science today.
Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future
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Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future
Instructor: Anthony J. Martin
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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8
(138 reviews)
Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 16 hours
Learn at your own pace
99%
Most learners liked this course
What you'll learn
Summarize extinctions as an important part of the history of life.
Identify the probable causes of mass extinctions in the geologic past (before humans).
Compare and contrast the Big Five mass extinctions with human-influenced extinctions.
Evaluate historical lessons and current trends to predict and prevent extinctions of the future.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
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Assessments
9 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 5 modules in this course
What's included
6 videos4 readings2 assignments
What's included
5 videos2 readings2 assignments
What's included
7 videos4 readings2 assignments
What's included
7 videos2 readings2 assignments
What's included
8 videos3 readings1 assignment1 peer review
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Instructor
Instructor ratings
5.0 (72 ratings)Offered by
Explore more from Environmental Science and Sustainability
American Museum of Natural History
University of Alberta
University of Alberta
Status: Free TrialRice University
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4.8
138 reviews
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Showing 3 of 138
BL
5
Reviewed on Jun 13, 2023
great class, learned alot of new info with the extinctions
LL
5
Reviewed on Dec 26, 2024
It has been a truly wonderful and highly informative course, I love it! Would recommend to anyone with an interest to try!
RS
5
Reviewed on Sep 28, 2020
Great course for the non-professional student- keeps the subject matter discussions light and contemporary. Especially loved the idea of ecological proxy, which I had never heard before!
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