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
Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future
Instructor: Anthony J. Martin
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10,133 already enrolled
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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8
(132 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.
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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
Instructor
Instructor ratings
5.0 (71 ratings)Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Environmental Science and Sustainability
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4.8
132 reviews
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Showing 3 of 132
SD
5
Reviewed on Dec 13, 2020
Excellent lecturer and selection of articles. Lecturer was very engaging and clearly is very passionate about the subject of this course.
GL
5
Reviewed on Oct 27, 2020
Dr. Martin made this highly informative class a joy to watch. :0)
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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