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Scott Solomon
In this course we will examine the incredible variety of life that inhabits this planet including microorganisms, plants, and animals. For each of the major groups we’ll learn about their characteristics, functions, and how they came into existence as well as some of the roles they play in the natural world, and how they’re relevant to people. We’ll also take a close look at us humans and consider what we know about our origins and what might become of us in the future.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Welcome to Introduction of Biology - Biodiversity
Module 1: What is life and how did it begin?
Module 2: Prokaryotic Life
Read more
Syllabus
Welcome to Introduction of Biology - Biodiversity
Module 1: What is life and how did it begin?
Module 2: Prokaryotic Life
Read more
In this module, we will learn about the major groups of prokaryotes, the role of the human microbiome, the discovery of antibiotics, and how bacteria develop antibiotic resistance.
Module 3: Eukaryotic Life
In this module, we will learn about the differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes, the major groups of protists, plants, and fungi and how they affect people and other organisms.
Module 4: Invertebrate Animals
In this module, we will learn about the evolutionary origins of animals, as well as some of the characteristics and importance of invertebrate animals such as Cnidarians, Rotifers, Mollusks, and Arthropods.
Module 5: Vertebrate Animals
In this module, we will learn about the major groups of fish, reptiles, amphibians, and birds.
Module 6: Mammals and Humans
In this module, we will learn about the major groups of mammals, including humans and other primates.
Final Assessment & Course Summary
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops a comprehensive understanding of life on Earth, from microorganisms to humans
Taught by Scott Solomon, a renowned professor of biology
Examines the origins of life, the diversity of species, and the role of humans in the natural world
Suitable for both beginners and intermediate learners interested in biology
May require prior knowledge of basic biology concepts for some learners
Covers a wide range of topics, but may not provide in-depth coverage of specific areas
Save this course
Save Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity with these
activities:
Read an introductory biology textbook
Show steps
Textbooks provide a comprehensive overview of biological concepts and serve as a valuable resource for reinforcing and supplementing course materials.
View
Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections,...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow the textbook
-
Read the chapters corresponding to the course material
-
Take notes and highlight important concepts
Review high school biology
Show steps
Biology is built on a foundation of knowledge. Test your knowledge and clear up any gaps on the most fundamental biological concepts.
Browse courses on
Biology
Show steps
-
Review your high school biology textbook or notes
-
Take practice quizzes or tests online
-
Watch educational videos or documentaries on basic biology topics
Explore online tutorials on specific biological topics
Show steps
Dig deeper into specific topics that interest you or challenge you. Guided tutorials provide structured learning experiences.
Browse courses on
Cell Biology
Show steps
-
Identify areas you want to strengthen or explore further
-
Search for reputable online tutorials or courses on those topics
-
Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises or assignments
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a concept map or infographic on a complex biological concept
Show steps
Visualizing complex concepts helps clarify understanding, encourages critical thinking, and aids in memorization.
Browse courses on
Plant Biology
Show steps
-
Choose a complex biological concept
-
Research the concept thoroughly
-
Design a concept map or infographic that visually represents the concept
Conduct practice questions to reinforce understanding of key concepts
Show steps
Regular practice with questions helps strengthen comprehension, improves problem-solving abilities, and builds confidence.
Browse courses on
Reproduction
Show steps
-
Gather practice questions from textbooks, online resources, or previous exams
-
Set aside dedicated time for practicing questions
-
Review your answers and identify areas for improvement
Join a study group to discuss course materials and concepts
Show steps
Peer learning can enhance understanding, improve retention, and provide diverse perspectives.
Browse courses on
Physiology
Show steps
-
Find or create a study group with peers taking the same course
-
Schedule regular meetings to discuss course materials
-
Take turns leading discussions, presenting concepts, and quizzing each other
Organize and review course notes, assignments, and materials
Show steps
Revisiting and organizing course materials helps solidify understanding, improves retention, and makes exam preparation more efficient.
Browse courses on
Cell Biology
Show steps
-
Gather all course notes, assignments, and resources
-
Create a system for organizing the materials (e.g., binders, folders, digital storage)
-
Review the materials regularly to reinforce key concepts
Read an introductory biology textbook
Show steps
Textbooks provide a comprehensive overview of biological concepts and serve as a valuable resource for reinforcing and supplementing course materials.
View
Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections,...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow the textbook
- Read the chapters corresponding to the course material
- Take notes and highlight important concepts
Review high school biology
Show steps
Biology is built on a foundation of knowledge. Test your knowledge and clear up any gaps on the most fundamental biological concepts.
Browse courses on
Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your high school biology textbook or notes
- Take practice quizzes or tests online
- Watch educational videos or documentaries on basic biology topics
Explore online tutorials on specific biological topics
Show steps
Dig deeper into specific topics that interest you or challenge you. Guided tutorials provide structured learning experiences.
Browse courses on
Cell Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify areas you want to strengthen or explore further
- Search for reputable online tutorials or courses on those topics
- Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises or assignments
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a concept map or infographic on a complex biological concept
Show steps
Visualizing complex concepts helps clarify understanding, encourages critical thinking, and aids in memorization.
Browse courses on
Plant Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a complex biological concept
- Research the concept thoroughly
- Design a concept map or infographic that visually represents the concept
Conduct practice questions to reinforce understanding of key concepts
Show steps
Regular practice with questions helps strengthen comprehension, improves problem-solving abilities, and builds confidence.
Browse courses on
Reproduction
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather practice questions from textbooks, online resources, or previous exams
- Set aside dedicated time for practicing questions
- Review your answers and identify areas for improvement
Join a study group to discuss course materials and concepts
Show steps
Peer learning can enhance understanding, improve retention, and provide diverse perspectives.
Browse courses on
Physiology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find or create a study group with peers taking the same course
- Schedule regular meetings to discuss course materials
- Take turns leading discussions, presenting concepts, and quizzing each other
Organize and review course notes, assignments, and materials
Show steps
Revisiting and organizing course materials helps solidify understanding, improves retention, and makes exam preparation more efficient.
Browse courses on
Cell Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all course notes, assignments, and resources
- Create a system for organizing the materials (e.g., binders, folders, digital storage)
- Review the materials regularly to reinforce key concepts
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Microbiologist
Microbiologist
As a Microbiologist, you will need to understand the fundamentals of life, including microorganisms. This course will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of prokaryotic life, microscopic organisms that play crucial roles in various ecosystems and industries.
Zoologist
Zoologist
If you aspire to be a Zoologist, this course provides a valuable learning foundation. It will help you develop the necessary understanding of animals and their environments. The course will build on your knowledge of life on Earth and further prepare you for success.
Conservation Officer
Conservation Officer
This course in Introduction to Biology is highly relevant to aspiring Conservation Officers. It will provide you with a deep understanding of wildlife, biodiversity, and conservation practices. This knowledge will be invaluable in your efforts to protect and manage natural resources and ecosystems.
Botanist
Botanist
To become a Botanist, a strong knowledge of plant life is essential. This course in Introduction to Biology covers the major groups of plants and their functions within the natural world. This knowledge will provide a solid foundation for your career in Botany.
Ecologist
Ecologist
Ecologists aim to understand and protect the natural world. This course will provide a valuable foundation in the study of life and how organisms interact with their environment. It will help you develop the skills needed to analyze and protect ecosystems effectively.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientist
As a Conservation Scientist, you will work to preserve and restore ecosystems. This course will provide a solid foundation in biodiversity, enabling you to better understand and protect the delicate balance of life on Earth.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
This course can be a valuable resource for those aspiring to become Science Teachers, particularly in Biology. It will help you develop a deep understanding of life on our planet, which you can pass on to your students, inspiring them to appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
Biologist
Biologist
This course in Introduction to Biology, focusing on Biodiversity, may provide some benefit to those who wish to become a Biologist. This course will help you better understand the various forms of life on our planet, including your own. As such, this can help prepare you for your future as a Biologist.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
For those aspiring to become Epidemiologists, this course in Introduction to Biology can be valuable. It will provide a comprehensive understanding of life and the factors that influence health and disease, equipping you with the knowledge needed to investigate and prevent outbreaks effectively.
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultant
If you wish to become an Environmental Consultant, this course in Introduction to Biology will provide a strong foundation. It will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of biodiversity and the interconnections within ecosystems, which are vital for assessing environmental impact and developing sustainable solutions.
Biomedical Scientist
Biomedical Scientist
Biomedical Scientists play a vital role in medical research and healthcare. This course will provide a solid foundation in biology, including the study of microorganisms and human physiology. It will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to contribute effectively to the field of biomedical science.
Veterinarian
Veterinarian
Veterinarians require a strong understanding of animal biology. This course in Introduction to Biology will provide a valuable foundation, helping you to understand the physiology, behavior, and diseases of various animal species, which is crucial for providing proper care and treatment.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
Aspiring Environmental Lawyers will find this course beneficial as it provides a solid understanding of biodiversity, environmental issues, and the legal frameworks surrounding them. It will equip you with the knowledge needed to effectively advocate for the protection of our planet and its ecosystems.
Science Writer
Science Writer
Science Writers are responsible for communicating scientific knowledge to various audiences. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively convey the fascinating world of biology to others, including the intricate details of different life forms and their significance.
Physician
Physician
Physicians must possess a comprehensive understanding of human biology. This course will provide a strong foundation in the study of life, including the intricacies of the human body and its systems. It will aid you in developing the knowledge and analytical skills needed for success in medical practice.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/3chcln/introduction
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of biology, including topics covered in this course such as evolution, genetics, and ecology. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Save
This textbook is another comprehensive resource that covers a wide range of biological topics, including biodiversity, evolution, and ecology. It good choice for students who want a more in-depth understanding of the subject matter.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of microbiology, including topics such as bacterial structure, function, and genetics. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about this important field.
Provides a sweeping overview of human history, from our origins as a species to the present day. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the human experience.
Provides a fascinating look at the history of extinctions on Earth, and the potential for a sixth extinction event in the near future. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the importance of biodiversity.
Save
Provides a clear and concise explanation of the evidence for evolution. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about this important topic.
Save
Provides a fascinating look at the evolutionary history of the human body. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the origins of our species.
Save
Provides a thought-provoking look at the future of life on Earth. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the challenges facing our planet.
Save
Provides a fascinating look at the relationship between plants and humans. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the importance of plants in our lives.
This textbook focuses on human biology, which is not covered in depth in this course. However, it could be a useful resource for students who want to learn more about the human body and its functions.
Save
Provides a fascinating look at the importance of island biogeography in understanding the history of life on Earth. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the causes of extinction.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/3chcln/introduction
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Effort
5 weeks of study, 3-5 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Rice University
Instructor
Scott Solomon
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
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हिंदी
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Introduction to Biology: Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity. It's comprised of three courses:
- Introduction to Biology: Ecology
- Introduction to Biology: Evolution
- Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity (viewing)
Good to know
Develops a comprehensive understanding of life on Earth, from microorganisms to humans
Taught by Scott Solomon, a renowned professor of biology
Examines the origins of life, the diversity of species, and the role of humans in the natural world
Suitable for both beginners and intermediate learners interested in biology
May require prior knowledge of basic biology concepts for some learners
Covers a wide range of topics, but may not provide in-depth coverage of specific areas
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