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Dr Jonathan Fairman, Prof. David M. Schultz, and Dr Rochelle Taylor

Develop a greater appreciation for how the air, water, land, and life formed and have interacted over the last 4.5 billion years.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Building Blocks of Earth’s Climate System
Formation, evolution, and processes of the solid Earth
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Water in Earth’s Climate System: Oceans, Atmosphere, and Cryosphere
Life, and its Effect on Earth’s Climate System
Build Your Own Earth and Conclusion

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Introduces the core geological processes that have shaped and continue shaping our planet
Provides a solid foundation for students interested in geology, climate change and the environment
Offers a comprehensive overview of the Earth's climate system, from its formation to its current state

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Save Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary

Excellent earth science course

According to students, this Earth Science course earns high praises for being well-organized, well-paced, and well-presented. The course features two complementary features: Google Earth Tour and Build Your Own Earth. Students say that the course is informative and their questions are answered promptly by instructors on the discussion pages.
Learners appreciate the quick responses from instructors.
"Our questions are answered promptly on the discussion pages."
Students enjoy the extra features in the course.
"It has 2 fantastic complementary features: Google Earth Tour and Build Your Own Earth."
Students appreciate how well-structured the course is.
"This is a well organised, well presented, well paced course."
"It's very informative."
Learners find this course to be very educational.
"It's very informative."

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 Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes with these activities:
Review Earth's History: Formation and Evolution
Refresh your memory on the complex history of Earth's formation so you can build a strong foundation for understanding the interactions of the different elements of Earth's system.
Browse courses on Earth's History
Show steps
  • Read textbooks or articles about Earth's Formation and Evolution
  • Watch videos or documentaries on the topic
  • Create a timeline of Earth's major geological events
Practice Identifying Earth's Systems
Get comfortable identifying and understanding the different systems of the Earth and how they connect
Show steps
  • Use online resources to practice identifying Earth's systems
  • Take quizzes or tests on the topic
  • Create a diagram or model of Earth's systems
Gather and Organize Resources on Earth's Biodiversity
Develop a deeper understanding of the diversity of life on Earth and the importance of preserving it by compiling and organizing resources on the topic
Browse courses on Biodiversity
Show steps
  • Search for credible sources of information on Earth's biodiversity
  • Read and review the materials
  • Organize the resources into categories and subcategories
  • Create a database or online repository for easy access
  • Share your compilation with others
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Learn about the Water Cycle
Deepen your understanding of how water moves through the Earth's system
Browse courses on Water Cycle
Show steps
  • Find and follow online tutorials on the Water Cycle
  • Conduct hands-on experiments to demonstrate the different stages of the Water Cycle
  • Build a model of the Water Cycle
Discuss the Impact of Human Activities on Earth's Climate
Connect with your classmates by discussing the impacts of human activities on Earth's climate to broaden your perspective and enhance your understanding
Show steps
  • Find a study group or online forum to join
  • Prepare talking points and questions for discussion
  • Actively participate in the discussion
  • Summarize the key points and takeaways from the discussion
Create a Presentation on Earth's Atmosphere
Gain a deeper understanding of the composition and layers of Earth's atmosphere by creating a presentation that walks through the key aspects
Show steps
  • Gather information from textbooks, articles, and online resources
  • Organize the information into a logical flow
  • Create visual aids to illustrate the key points
  • Present your presentation to a group or record it for later viewing
Attend a Workshop on Climate Change Mitigation Strategies
Broaden your knowledge and stay up-to-date on current climate change discussions by attending workshops led by experts in the field
Browse courses on Climate Change Mitigation
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant workshops
  • Register for the workshop
  • Actively participate in the workshop sessions
  • Network with other participants and experts
  • Apply the knowledge gained to your own understanding of climate change
Contribute to Climate Change Research Projects
Expand your learning beyond the classroom by actively participating in climate change research and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field
Browse courses on Climate Modeling
Show steps
  • Identify research projects that align with your interests
  • Contact the researchers and express your interest in contributing
  • Familiarize yourself with the project's goals, methods, and data
  • Work with the research team to make meaningful contributions
  • Present your findings or assist with data analysis

Career center

Learners who complete Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Climate Change Analyst
Climate Change Analysts use data to build computer models that predict how the Earth’s climate will change. Data is collected from a variety of sources, such as weather stations, satellites, and ice cores. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” can be a beneficial supplement to your learning if you want to become a Climate Change Analyst. It helps build a foundation in the intricate workings of Earth’s complex climate system, providing a comprehensive understanding of how its components interact and shape our planet. This knowledge is essential for accurately predicting future climate scenarios and developing effective mitigation strategies.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and how it is affected by human activity. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” can be a valuable asset for aspiring Environmental Scientists. It provides a comprehensive overview of Earth’s climate system, including its history, processes, and interactions with life. This knowledge is fundamental for understanding the complex environmental issues we face today and developing sustainable solutions for the future.
Geochemist
Geochemists study the chemical composition of the Earth and its materials. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Geochemistry. It offers a solid foundation in Earth’s geological processes, including the formation and evolution of the solid Earth. This knowledge is essential for understanding the distribution and behavior of chemical elements in Earth’s systems.
Hydrologist
Hydrologists study the movement and distribution of water on Earth. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” can be a useful tool for aspiring Hydrologists. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the water cycle and its interactions with the atmosphere, land, and oceans. This knowledge is essential for managing water resources and mitigating the impacts of droughts and floods.
Meteorologist
Meteorologists study the atmosphere and weather patterns. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” can be a helpful resource for future Meteorologists. It offers a comprehensive overview of Earth’s climate system, including its history, processes, and interactions with life. This knowledge is fundamental for understanding and predicting weather patterns and their impact on our planet.
Oceanographer
Oceanographers study the oceans and their interactions with the atmosphere, land, and life. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be beneficial for individuals interested in Oceanography. It provides a thorough understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape the oceans and their role in Earth’s climate system.
Paleoclimatologist
Paleoclimatologists study past climates and how they have changed over time. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” can be a useful resource for aspiring Paleoclimatologists. It offers a comprehensive overview of Earth’s climate system, including its history and processes. This knowledge is essential for understanding past climate change and predicting future trends.
Petrologist
Petrologists study the formation, composition, and structure of rocks. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be helpful for individuals interested in Petrology. It provides a solid foundation in Earth’s geological processes, including the formation and evolution of the solid Earth. This knowledge is essential for understanding the composition and properties of rocks.
Planetary Scientist
Planetary Scientists study the planets, moons, and other objects in our solar system. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be useful for aspiring Planetary Scientists. It offers a comprehensive overview of Earth’s climate system, including its history and processes. This knowledge is essential for understanding the formation and evolution of other planets and their potential for supporting life.
Soil Scientist
Soil Scientists study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be useful for individuals interested in Soil Science. It provides a solid foundation in Earth’s geological processes, including the formation and evolution of the solid Earth. This knowledge is essential for understanding the composition and properties of soil.
Atmospheric Scientist
Atmospheric Scientists study the Earth’s atmosphere, including its composition, structure, and dynamics. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be useful for individuals interested in Atmospheric Science. It provides a comprehensive overview of Earth’s climate system, including the interactions between the atmosphere, oceans, and land. This knowledge is essential for understanding weather patterns, air pollution, and climate change.
Climatology Professor
Climatology Professors specialize in the study of climatology, which focuses on the long-term patterns and changes in Earth’s climate. They typically work as faculty members at colleges or universities, where they teach courses, conduct research, and publish their findings. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” aligns well with the subject matter of Climatology and can be a valuable resource for individuals interested in pursuing this career path. It provides a comprehensive overview of Earth’s climate system, including its history, processes, and interactions with life.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as air and water pollution, waste management, and climate change. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be helpful for aspiring Environmental Engineers. It provides a comprehensive overview of Earth’s climate system, including its history, processes, and interactions with life. This knowledge is essential for understanding the environmental challenges we face today and developing sustainable solutions for the future.
Geophysicist
Geophysicists study the physical properties and processes of the Earth, including its interior, atmosphere, and oceans. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or research institutions. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be useful for individuals interested in Geophysics. It provides a broad overview of Earth’s systems, including its geological processes, climate system, and interactions with life. This knowledge is fundamental for understanding the structure and dynamics of our planet.
Science Writer
Science Writers communicate complex scientific information to the public. They may work for a variety of media outlets, such as newspapers, magazines, websites, or television shows. The course “Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes” may be beneficial for aspiring Science Writers who want to specialize in environmental topics. It provides a comprehensive overview of Earth’s climate system, including its history, processes, and interactions with life. This knowledge is essential for accurately reporting on scientific advancements and environmental issues.

Reading list

We've selected 30 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 Our Earth: Its Climate, History, and Processes.
Save
Comprehensive textbook on physical geography that covers the Earth's climate, history, and processes. It valuable reference and provides additional depth and breadth to the course.
Offers a unique perspective on Earth's history by examining geological formations and fossils. Provides insights into past climate conditions and the evolution of life on Earth, complementing the course's focus on Earth's processes and history.
Provides a comprehensive understanding of the atmosphere, weather, and climate. Covers topics such as atmospheric composition, weather forecasting, and climate change, enhancing the course's examination of Earth's climate system and processes.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the atmosphere, weather, and climate. It useful reference for understanding the processes that shape the Earth's climate.
Save
Offers an introductory overview of physical geology, covering topics like plate tectonics, earthquakes, and volcanoes, providing foundational knowledge for the course.
Provides a broad overview of atmospheric science, addressing topics such as atmospheric composition, circulation, and weather systems, offering valuable background knowledge for the course.
Offers a comprehensive introduction to geophysics, covering topics like plate tectonics, seismology, and geomagnetism, which are relevant to the course's exploration of Earth's solid structure.
Presents a lyrical and informative account of water's role in Earth's history and human civilization. Explores the scientific, cultural, and personal significance of water, complementing the course's emphasis on the hydrosphere and its impact on Earth's climate and life.
Provides a detailed account of the Earth's history, from its formation to the present day. It valuable resource for understanding the long-term processes that have shaped the Earth.
Providing a general overview of biology, this book complements the course's examination of the role of life in Earth's climate system.
Explores the topic of human evolution, providing insights into the origins and development of the human species, complementing the course's examination of life's impact on Earth's climate system.
Provides a detailed examination of the Earth's solid structure, composition, and processes. Offers in-depth knowledge on topics such as plate tectonics, earthquakes, and volcanism, complementing the course's coverage of the formation and evolution of the solid Earth.
This textbook provides a thorough introduction to geochemistry, covering topics such as the composition of the Earth, the processes that shape its chemistry, and the interactions between the Earth's surface and atmosphere.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the solid Earth, including its formation, evolution, and processes. It useful reference for understanding the processes that shape the Earth.
This textbook offers a comprehensive overview of meteorology, climatology, and the environment, providing a strong foundation for understanding the course material on Earth's climate system.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Earth's climate history, including past climate change events and projections for the future. Offers a valuable resource for understanding the long-term context and potential implications of climate change, complementing the course's focus on Earth's climate processes and history.
Provides a comprehensive overview of meteorology, the study of the atmosphere. It useful reference for understanding the processes that shape the Earth's climate.
Provides a comprehensive overview of environmental chemistry, covering topics such as air pollution, water pollution, and climate change. Offers a valuable resource for understanding the chemical processes and interactions that contribute to Earth's climate and environmental issues.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the Earth system, covering topics such as the interactions between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere.
Visual encyclopedia of the Earth, covering its history, geography, and climate. It useful reference for providing background knowledge on the course topics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the atmosphere, weather, and climate, covering topics such as the composition of the atmosphere, the processes that drive weather and climate, and the impacts of climate change.
Provides a beautiful and detailed account of the oceans, their history, and their importance to the Earth's climate. It valuable supplementary reading for the course.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of aquatic chemistry, covering topics such as the chemical composition of natural waters, the processes that control the chemical composition of natural waters, and the impacts of human activities on water quality.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of ecology, covering topics such as the interactions between organisms and their environment, the dynamics of populations and communities, and the conservation of biodiversity.

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