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Robert Dubrow
Climate change is one of the greatest threats to human health in the 21st century. Yet these impacts to health are still not well recognized. Since you can’t change what you don’t understand, this course is designed to equip health and environmental...
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Climate change is one of the greatest threats to human health in the 21st century. Yet these impacts to health are still not well recognized. Since you can’t change what you don’t understand, this course is designed to equip health and environmental professionals, as well as other changemakers and the public, with critical and usable knowledge to take positive action. The course begins with an introduction to the science of climate change and how climate change affects human health. It takes a deep dive into climate change’s adverse health effects, including those related to extreme heat, waterborne infections, insect-borne diseases, and exposure to storms and floods. Throughout, the theme of health equity is interwoven by pointing to what factors make some populations more vulnerable than others to climate change’s negative health impacts. Finally, the course explains how measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions can not only limit future climate change but can also generate substantial immediate health “co-benefits” over and above the benefit of reducing climate change. Following completion of the course, students will be able to: · At an introductory level, describe how the climate has changed, explain the role of greenhouse gases in climate change, and describe how the climate is predicted to change in the future. · Describe how climate change adversely impacts population health, with differing vulnerability across population sub-groups, through direct effects; through ecosystem transformation and degradation; and through the stress it places on political, economic, and social systems. · Explain how adaptation and mitigation strategies can reduce adverse health impacts of climate change and can generate substantial non-climate health benefits in a just and equitable manner.
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Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners
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Reviews summary

Climate change and health

This course equips students with the knowledge to understand the impacts of climate change on health. Its easy-to-understand format makes it a great learning tool for individuals or communities. The course begins with the science of climate change, then explores how climate change affects human health. It also emphasizes the importance of health equity and discusses measures to reduce adverse health impacts of climate change.
Introductory course suitable for those with little to no prior knowledge about climate change.
"Great introduction in Climate Change or refresher course for those looking to gain more knowledge on Climate Change and Health."
"Very insightful course about fundamentals of climate, climate change, health effects related to air pollution, highlighted statistics, co-beneftis etc."
The course highlights the importance of health equity in addressing climate change impacts.
"It takes a deep dive into climate change’s adverse health effects, including ... those related to... exposure to storms and floods."
"Throughout, the theme of health equity is interwoven by pointing to what factors make some populations more vulnerable than others..."
Content goes into great detail, with supporting research data.
"The course teaches very in-depth content and backs it up with a lot of research data."
"...I enjoyed this course because I was able to review some of the climate change principles that I have been taught in graduate school."
Delves into how climate change affects health and discusses ways to reduce negative impacts.
"The information was referenced and fact based."
"...made me want to learn more."
"Excellent overview, well taught!"
Professor Robert Dubrow presents the material clearly and makes it interesting.
"Love the course -- Mr. Robert Dubrow is an absolute delight to listen to!"
"Professor Robert Dubrow managed to go through all the topic in a clear and concise manner while making it engaging and enjoyable to learn"
Be aware that assessments are partly peer-reviewed.
"My only suggestion for improvement is the peer-review grading system seems to be unwieldly."

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 Climate Change and Health with these activities:
Find a mentor who can provide guidance on climate change.
A mentor can provide you with support and guidance, and help you to achieve your goals.
Show steps
  • Identify someone who has experience and knowledge in climate change.
  • Ask the person if they would be willing to be your mentor.
  • Meet with your mentor regularly to discuss your progress and goals.
Volunteer with a local climate change organization.
This activity will give you the opportunity to learn about climate change and to make a difference in your community.
Browse courses on Climate Change
Show steps
  • Find a local climate change organization to volunteer with.
  • Attend volunteer training.
  • Participate in volunteer activities, such as organizing events, fundraising, or educating the public about climate change.
Read The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the causes and consequences of climate change, and will help you understand the complex interactions between humans and the natural world.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the main points.
  • Write a summary of the book in your own words.
  • Discuss the book with friends or family members.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Join a study group with other students in the course.
This activity will help you to learn from and support your fellow students.
Show steps
  • Find a group of students who are interested in studying together.
  • Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
  • Work together on assignments and projects.
Read Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the solutions to climate change, and will help you understand the actions that you can take to make a difference.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the main points.
  • Write a summary of the book in your own words.
  • Discuss the book with friends or family members.
Write a blog post or article about the effects of climate change on human health.
This activity will help you to synthesize your knowledge of climate change and human health, and to communicate your findings to a broader audience.
Browse courses on Climate Change
Show steps
  • Choose a specific aspect of climate change and its impact on human health to focus on.
  • Research the topic and gather evidence to support your claims.
  • Write a draft of your blog post or article.
  • Get feedback on your draft from friends, family, or colleagues.
  • Publish your blog post or article.
Develop a climate change adaptation plan for your community.
This project will give you hands-on experience in developing and implementing climate change adaptation measures.
Browse courses on Climate Change
Show steps
  • Form a team of stakeholders, including representatives from local government, businesses, and community organizations.
  • Assess the vulnerability of your community to climate change.
  • Identify and prioritize adaptation measures.
  • Develop a plan for implementing the adaptation measures.
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the adaptation measures.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Climate Change and Health will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Climate Change Health Specialist
Climate Change Health Specialists build a strong foundation in the science of climate change and the ways in which it affects human health. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these professionals understand how the effects of climate change impact certain populations more than others. The course also examines methods of adapting to and mitigating the effects of climate change, empowering specialists with strategies to promote health equity.
Environmental Health Scientist
Environmental Health Scientists play a vital role in protecting human health from environmental hazards. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can provide these scientists with a deep understanding of the ways in which climate change impacts human health, as well as the strategies that can be used to mitigate these impacts.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to reduce the environmental impact of their organizations. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can provide these managers with a comprehensive understanding of the health impacts of climate change and the ways in which these impacts can be reduced.
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses work to promote health and prevent disease in the community. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these nurses understand how climate change impacts health and well-being, and provide them with the skills to educate the public about these impacts and how to prepare for them.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes and distribution of disease in the population. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these professionals understand the health impacts of climate change and provide them with the skills to investigate and track these impacts.
Physician
Physicians diagnose and treat diseases and provide preventive care for the community. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help physicians understand the health impacts of climate change and how to prepare for and treat these impacts.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies to make recommendations for improvements. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these analysts understand the health impacts of climate change and how to develop policies to mitigate these impacts.
Climate Change Researcher
Climate Change Researchers study the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to climate change. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can provide these researchers with a deep understanding of the health impacts of climate change and the ways in which these impacts can be mitigated.
Climate Adaptation Specialist
Climate Adaptation Specialists develop and implement strategies to help communities adapt to the impacts of climate change. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can provide these specialists with a deep understanding of the health impacts of climate change and the ways in which these impacts can be mitigated.
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and manage the development of cities and towns. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these planners understand the health impacts of climate change and how to design communities that are resilient to these impacts.
Health Educator
Health Educators provide information, education, and support to individuals and communities to help them make healthy choices. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these educators understand the health impacts of climate change and how to educate the public about these impacts and how to prepare for them.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyers specialize in the laws and regulations that protect the environment and human health. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can provide these lawyers with a strong understanding of the health impacts of climate change and the ways in which these impacts can be addressed through litigation and policy.
Environmental Journalist
Environmental Journalists report on environmental issues and write articles, stories, and features for newspapers, magazines, and websites. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these journalists understand the health impacts of climate change and how to communicate these impacts to the public.
Community Health Worker
Community Health Workers provide health education, counseling, and support to individuals and families in their communities. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these workers understand the health impacts of climate change and how to educate and support their communities in preparing for and responding to these impacts.
Disaster Relief Worker
Disaster Relief Workers respond to disasters and provide assistance to victims. The Introduction to Climate Change and Health course can help these workers understand the health impacts of climate change and how to prepare for and respond to these impacts.

Reading list

We've selected ten 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 Climate Change and Health.
The most comprehensive and authoritative assessment of the science of climate change, providing an essential reference for understanding the latest research and policy implications.
Provides a comprehensive assessment of the health impacts of climate change, including the latest scientific evidence and policy recommendations.
Provides a comprehensive assessment of the health effects of climate change, including the latest scientific evidence and policy recommendations.
A powerful and urgent account of the human and environmental costs of climate change, highlighting the need for immediate action.
Argues that the current economic system is incompatible with addressing climate change, and proposes a radical shift towards a more sustainable and just society.
Examines the challenges and opportunities of transitioning away from fossil fuels, providing insights into the role of renewable energy and energy efficiency in mitigating climate change.

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