Oceanography: a key to better understand our world from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

1A - The Mediterranean: a model of an ocean - Temperature, salinity and pressure.

Module 1 addresses some of the fundamental concepts of descriptive oceanography related to the physical characteristics of water: the vertical distribution of temperature and salinity, TS diagram, stability and destabilization of the water column, the formation of water dense and deep, the water masses and circulation. It is necessary also introduces concepts to understand the relationship between the distribution of the mass of water, its surface topography of a regional or larger scale, and called geostrophic circulation, where it plays a fundamental role the Coriolis force. While the concepts presented have general applicability, examples are the Mediterranean, starting with the characteristics of the waters near Barcelona, where it begins and ends the Barcelona World Race, and ending with the general circulation of the water masses around the Mediterranean.

1B - The Mediterranean: a model of an ocean - Water masses and circulation

In this module you will learn how dense waters and water bodies are formed. Where the Mediterranean will be used as a model of ocean. As well as some of the fundamental concepts of marine dynamics, which is how the Coriolis and pressure gradient force is formed. Besides the importance of dynamic topography and geostrophic flow. Hope will be to your liking.

2. The Global Ocean

This module will enter fully into the Global Ocean, will review and generalize the aspects previously referred to in the previous module. We will see the role of the ocean on a global scale, and how we can affect those who live closer or farther from the coast. Try to understand why it is still quite unknown and will glance nose in the marine environment. That is, how it behaves for those living beings, most who live within the ocean or in direct contact with him.

3A. Satellite oceanography: all eyes on the planet (I)

In this module you will learn the importance of ocean observation by satellite, talk about remote sensing, electromagnetic radiation emitted and reflected, and the importance of their study for navigation.

3B. Satellite oceanography: All eyes on the planet (II)

This new module will expand the study of oceanography satellite, and microwave as for obtaining information are used. What are they and what is the importance of active sensors. And finally, other applications of satellites and their importance.

4. Ocean chemistry: a chemical industry with wall-less pipes

In this section you will learn ocean chemistry what is it? how does it work? What is the vertical axis of the biosphere and the vertical segregació of the elements and how it works? What is carbon carbonate system and what is its relationship with the ocean conveyor belt?. The answers to all these questions will help us understand how the oceans work, the importance for navigation and its relationship to the planet's climate.

5. Ocean basins: a memory sustained for millions of years

The result of the evolution of the crust of the Earth: a set of land masses and ocean basins in continuous motion over crust. With a little history we will achieve understand the result of the evolution of the crust of the earth and the diversity of ocean domains: the continental margins to large tanks. Large ocean basins

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

This course provides a foundation in oceanography and is suitable for absolute beginners

Exploration of a diverse range of oceanographic phenomena

Taught by renowned oceanography professor Jordi Serra

Covers various aspects of oceanography, from physical to chemical to biological processes

Offers insights into the formation of ocean floor, ocean circulation, and marine life

Provides a glimpse into cutting-edge satellite oceanography techniques

Examines the role of the ocean in shaping Earth's climate

Requires no prior knowledge in oceanography

Reviews summary

Oceanography: an overview of the field

Learners say that Oceanography: a key to better understand our world is a largely positive course that is a resourceful and well-structured introduction to the field. With many engaging assignments, the course covers a wide range of topics in oceanography, although some learners note that it does so briefly. Instructors are recognized for their expertise and the course materials for being informative. While the majority of the course is in English, learners note that many videos are primarily in Spanish. One learner found the lectures to be difficult to follow as a result.

Covers currents, remote sensing, geology, and paleoceanography

"I learned a lot in this course and I think that the topics were very unique and interesting in a deep understanding and key to the relationship between the ocean and the world."

Course materials consist of video lectures, readings, and quizzes

"Este curso es muy avanzado, hay que tener eso en cuenta antes de empezarlo, hay cosas que son prácticamente imposibles de comprender sin conocimientos previos de termodinámica o termología"

Involves reading scientific articles and writing short reports

"This course provided a great overview of what oceanography is about and made me want to learn more about it."

"The course is really detailed, and the tests are not easy to pass. I feel like I learned a lot from this course, and I liked all the lecturers."

Instructors are knowledgeable and engaged

"The professors are very well in subjects and represents in beautiful manner. Thanks to coursera and University of Barcelona for designing this course."

Many lectures are primarily in Spanish, with English subtitles

"I am very excited to be completed this course."

"Este curso es muy avanzado, hay que tener eso en cuenta antes de empezarlo, hay cosas que son prácticamente imposibles de comprender sin conocimientos previos de termodinámica o termología"

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 Oceanography: a key to better understand our world with these activities:

Review of Aquatic Concepts

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Brush up on oceanography and marine biology to recall and solidify basic concepts.

Browse courses on Oceanography

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Review chapters on basic oceanography concepts from a textbook or online resources.
Read articles and watch videos on marine biology to familiarize yourself with the subject.

Explore the Valencia Institute of Oceanography

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Visit the official website of the Valencia Institute of Oceanography and explore its resources to broaden your understanding of oceanography.

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Browse the website to learn about the research conducted by the institute.
Watch videos and read articles on oceanography-related topics published by the institute.
Participate in online forums or webinars offered by the institute.

Get comfortable with Meteorology

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Review some basic Meteorology and Oceanography to better understand the course's content.

Browse courses on Oceanography

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Review basic Meteorology and Oceanography concepts
Read reliable articles or watch videos to learn more
Take a short course or workshop

Seven other activities

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Show all ten activities

Watch video tutorials on Oceanography

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Watch video tutorials on Oceanography to supplement your learning and gain a deeper understanding of the subject.

Browse courses on Oceanography

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Find reputable video tutorials online
Watch the tutorials and take notes
Pause and rewind the tutorials as needed

Ocean Currents Simulation

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Engage in online simulations or exercises that demonstrate how ocean currents form and move, enhancing your comprehension of this topic.

Browse courses on Ocean Currents

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Find online simulations or exercises that allow you to manipulate variables and observe the effects on ocean currents.
Experiment with different settings to understand the factors influencing ocean current patterns.

Discussion on Oceanographic Phenomena

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Participate in online discussion forums or join study groups to discuss and exchange knowledge on specific oceanographic phenomena.

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Identify online discussion forums or study groups related to oceanography.
Select a topic of interest and prepare to share your insights and questions.
Engage in discussions, ask thoughtful questions, and actively listen to others' perspectives.

Practice solving Oceanography problems

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Practice solving problems related to oceanography to improve your understanding and problem-solving skills.

Browse courses on Oceanography

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Find practice problems online or in textbooks
Solve the problems on your own or with a study group
Check your answers and learn from your mistakes

Create a presentation on Oceanography

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Convey your Oceanography knowledge by creating a presentation to solidify your understanding and improve your communication skills.

Browse courses on Oceanography

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Choose a topic
Research your topic
Create your presentation slides
Practice your presentation
Present your presentation

Oceanographic Data Analysis

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Work on a project that involves analyzing real oceanographic data, such as temperature, salinity, or current data, to gain practical experience in data interpretation.

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Identify a dataset of interest from online repositories or research institutions.
Use data analysis tools or software to explore, visualize, and interpret the data.
Draw conclusions and identify patterns or trends in the data.

Design and conduct an Oceanography experiment

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Design and conduct an Oceanography experiment to apply your knowledge and gain hands-on experience.

Browse courses on Oceanography

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Choose a research question
Design your experiment
Conduct your experiment
Analyze your results
Write a report on your findings

Career center

Learners who complete Oceanography: a key to better understand our world will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Oceanographer

Oceanographers study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the ocean. They may work in a variety of settings, from research institutions to government agencies, and they may use a variety of techniques, from shipboard observations to computer modeling. This course provides a comprehensive overview of oceanography, covering topics such as ocean currents, waves, tides, and marine ecosystems. It is an ideal foundation for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in oceanography.

See salaries and explore the career path for Oceanographer

Marine Policy Advisor

Marine Policy Advisors develop and analyze policies for government agencies or other organizations that relate to the ocean. They may focus on a particular area of marine policy, such as fisheries management or coastal development, or they may work on a variety of marine policy issues. This course provides a comprehensive overview of oceanography, which is essential for understanding the issues that Marine Policy Advisors work on. It can help aspiring Marine Policy Advisors build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marine Policy Advisor

Marine Biologist

Marine Biologists study the biology of marine organisms, from the microscopic to the massive. They may focus on a particular group of organisms, such as fish, or they may study the entire ecosystem of a particular area. Oceanography is a fundamental field for Marine Biologists, as it provides an understanding of the physical and chemical properties of the ocean and how these factors affect marine life. This course, which covers topics such as water temperature, salinity, and ocean currents, can help aspiring Marine Biologists build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marine Biologist

Marine Conservationist

Marine Conservationists work to protect and conserve marine ecosystems. They may work with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies, and they may use a variety of methods, from scientific research to public education. This course provides a strong foundation in oceanography, which is essential for understanding the threats facing marine ecosystems and developing effective conservation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marine Conservationist

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with human activities. They may work in a variety of settings, from government agencies to private companies, and they may focus on a particular area of environmental science, such as water quality, air pollution, or climate change. This course provides a broad overview of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding the global environment. It can help aspiring Environmental Scientists build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Hydrologist

Hydrologists study water and its movement through the environment. They may work in a variety of settings, from government agencies to private companies, and they may focus on a particular area of hydrology, such as water quality, water resources, or flood control. This course provides a basic understanding of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding the global water cycle. It can help aspiring Hydrologists build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They may work in a variety of settings, from government agencies to private companies, and they may focus on a particular area of environmental engineering, such as water treatment, air pollution control, or waste management. This course provides a basic understanding of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding the global environment. It can help aspiring Environmental Engineers build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law. They may work for government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations, and they may focus on a particular area of environmental law, such as water law, air pollution law, or climate change law. This course provides a basic understanding of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding environmental law. It can help aspiring Environmental Lawyers build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Climatologist

Climatologists study climate and its changes over time. They may work in a variety of settings, from government agencies to private companies, and they may focus on a particular area of climatology, such as climate modeling, climate change, or paleoclimatology. This course provides a basic understanding of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding the global climate system. It can help aspiring Climatologists build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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National Park Ranger

National Park Rangers protect and manage national parks and other public lands. They may work in a variety of settings, from forests to beaches, and they may have a variety of responsibilities, from law enforcement to visitor education. This course provides a basic understanding of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding the environment in which National Park Rangers work. It can help aspiring National Park Rangers build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Geologist

Geologists study the Earth's physical features and the processes that have shaped them. They may work in a variety of settings, from academia to industry, and they may focus on a particular area of geology, such as geophysics, geochemistry, or paleontology. This course provides a basic understanding of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding the Earth's systems. It can help aspiring Geologists build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies for government agencies or other organizations. They may focus on a particular area of policy, such as environmental policy, or they may work on a variety of policy issues. This course provides a basic understanding of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding environmental policy. It can help aspiring Policy Analysts build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Science Writer

Science Writers communicate science to the public. They may work for newspapers, magazines, or websites, or they may write books or other materials. This course provides a broad overview of oceanography, which is an important part of science communication. It can help aspiring Science Writers build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Meteorologist

Meteorologists study the atmosphere and its interactions with the Earth's surface. They may work in a variety of settings, from government agencies to private companies, and they may focus on a particular area of meteorology, such as weather forecasting, climate modeling, or air pollution. This course provides a basic understanding of oceanography, which is an important part of understanding the Earth's climate system. It can help aspiring Meteorologists build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers teach science to students at all levels, from elementary school to college. They may focus on a particular area of science, such as biology, chemistry, or physics, or they may teach general science. This course provides a broad overview of oceanography, which is an important part of science education. It can help aspiring Science Teachers build a strong foundation in oceanography and prepare them for success in this field.

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