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Anthony J. Martin
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Regardless of your familiarity with the topic, you'll get portable handouts, lively demonstrations, and quizzes that bridge and enhance your knowledge.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/hlkepy/extinctions
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Extinctions: Getting Started with the End
Human Awareness of Extinctions: A History
Mass Extinctions of the Pre-Human Past
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Extinctions: Getting Started with the End
Human Awareness of Extinctions: A History
Mass Extinctions of the Pre-Human Past
Read more
Extinctions of Pre-History & Near-Present (Pleistocene Epoch & Late Holocene Epoch)
Extinctions Since European Colonization & Going into the Future
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Emphasizes the importance of paleontology and geological study, which are foundational concepts in understanding extinctions
Delivered by Anthony J. Martin, an established instructor in the field
Covers a wide range of topics on extinctions, catering to diverse interests
Offers portable handouts, lively demonstrations, and quizzes to enhance learning
May require prior knowledge of natural history or geology for a comprehensive understanding
Save this course
Save Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Engaging course on past, present, and future extinctions
Learners say this well received 5-star course presents engaging lectures, readings, and an insightful assignment that increases understanding and retention of the key themes and points. Learners highlight the instructor's engaging wit and passion for the subject. The course covers a range of topics related to extinctions, from past events to the potential impact of human activity on the current environment. Many learners also praised the additional insight provided by the accompanying online readings and papers.
Logical organization with engaging videos and relevant readings that enhance comprehension.
"The course content consisted of both short videos and online readings which were manageable from a time standpoint."
"The innovative integration of lectures and reading material is a feature of this course that makes it especially effective for distance learning."
"The combination enhanced my understanding and retention."
Final assignment encourages understanding and retention of key concepts.
"The only drawback I can point to is the peer review project, which depends entirely on someone else's availability in order to finish the course, but my project was reviewed pretty quickly."
"I really liked the style and organization of this course, and the content was excellent."
"It summarized some of the key teaching points and enhanced learning."
Thought-provoking material that sheds insight on past extinctions and their implications for the future.
"Excellent overview of pre-human extinctions and their relationship to the current human-initiated 6th extinction."
"Learned a lot - and understanding the past really put into context what is happening now in regards to extinctions and climate change."
"An excellent course...one of the best I have taken on Coursera."
Delightful instructor who captivates audiences with wit and passion.
"The professor, plus the course syllabus, and the way in which they were both presented exceeded all my hopes and expectations for learning as a beginning geology student major."
"I wish there were a few more lecturers like him when I went to uni!"
"Professor Martin presents the information in a well organized, enjoyable manner."
Minor issues with paid subscriptions for some readings.
"Access to the readings was difficult because several required paid subscriptions or were no longer available."
"Other readings had internet ads and videos on the side or embedded in the text, making it difficult to concentrate to read."
Some learners express frustration with the requirement to purchase a certificate to complete the course.
"I already paid for the course certificate!!"
"To complete this course I am repeatedly coerced into purchasing the $49 Certificate of Achievement."
"I decided to unenroll from it."
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 Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future with these
activities:
Review Reading Academic Texts
Show steps
Build a strong foundation in extracting key concepts, understanding author's perspectives, and analyzing arguments within academic texts.
Browse courses on
Literacy
Show steps
-
Identify and define key terms in academic texts.
-
Practice skimming and scanning academic texts to locate relevant information.
-
Summarize main ideas and supporting evidence from academic texts.
-
Identify and analyze the author's purpose, perspective, and argument in academic texts.
Organize and Review Course Notes
Show steps
Reinforce understanding by revisiting, organizing, and summarizing key concepts and ideas from lectures and readings.
Browse courses on
Note-Taking
Show steps
-
Review your lecture notes and identify key points and main ideas.
-
Summarize and condense the information into a concise and organized format.
-
Create flashcards or mind maps to facilitate memorization and recall.
Complete Practice Questions on Mass Extinction Causes
Show steps
Reinforce understanding of the geological and environmental factors that have contributed to mass extinctions throughout history.
Browse courses on
Practice Questions
Show steps
-
Solve practice questions that cover topics such as volcanic eruptions, climate change, and asteroid impacts.
-
Review the answers and explanations to identify areas of strength and weakness.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Read The Sixth Extinction
Show steps
Gain insights into the causes and consequences of previous mass extinctions on Earth, providing context for the current extinction crisis.
View
The Sixth Extinction (Tenth Anniversary Edition)
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and summarize each chapter of the book, highlighting key points and examples.
-
Analyze the author's arguments about the role of human activities in driving the current extinction crisis.
-
Research and discuss the ethical implications of biodiversity loss and the importance of conservation efforts.
Create an Infographic on Mass Extinctions
Show steps
Develop a visual representation of the causes, consequences, and trends of mass extinctions, enhancing understanding and retention.
Browse courses on
Infographics
Show steps
-
Gather data and research on the different mass extinctions that have occurred on Earth.
-
Design the infographic using a visually appealing format that effectively communicates the information.
-
Include clear and concise explanations of the causes and consequences of mass extinctions.
-
Use a variety of visual elements such as charts, graphs, and images to convey information.
Attend a Conservation Conference or Webinar
Show steps
Engage with experts and professionals in the field of extinction research and conservation, broadening perspectives and fostering connections.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Research upcoming conservation conferences or webinars related to extinction.
-
Attend sessions and workshops led by leading scientists and researchers.
-
Network with other attendees, including conservationists, ecologists, and policymakers.
Volunteer at a Local Environmental Organization
Show steps
Gain practical experience in environmental protection and conservation, deepening understanding of the importance of preserving biodiversity.
Browse courses on
Environmental Conservation
Show steps
-
Identify and contact local environmental organizations that focus on conservation or extinction prevention.
-
Inquire about volunteer opportunities and select a role that aligns with your interests and skills.
-
Participate in activities such as habitat restoration, species monitoring, or educational outreach.
Review Reading Academic Texts
Show steps
Build a strong foundation in extracting key concepts, understanding author's perspectives, and analyzing arguments within academic texts.
Browse courses on
Literacy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and define key terms in academic texts.
- Practice skimming and scanning academic texts to locate relevant information.
- Summarize main ideas and supporting evidence from academic texts.
- Identify and analyze the author's purpose, perspective, and argument in academic texts.
Organize and Review Course Notes
Show steps
Reinforce understanding by revisiting, organizing, and summarizing key concepts and ideas from lectures and readings.
Browse courses on
Note-Taking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your lecture notes and identify key points and main ideas.
- Summarize and condense the information into a concise and organized format.
- Create flashcards or mind maps to facilitate memorization and recall.
Complete Practice Questions on Mass Extinction Causes
Show steps
Reinforce understanding of the geological and environmental factors that have contributed to mass extinctions throughout history.
Browse courses on
Practice Questions
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Solve practice questions that cover topics such as volcanic eruptions, climate change, and asteroid impacts.
- Review the answers and explanations to identify areas of strength and weakness.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Read The Sixth Extinction
Show steps
Gain insights into the causes and consequences of previous mass extinctions on Earth, providing context for the current extinction crisis.
View
The Sixth Extinction (Tenth Anniversary Edition)
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and summarize each chapter of the book, highlighting key points and examples.
- Analyze the author's arguments about the role of human activities in driving the current extinction crisis.
- Research and discuss the ethical implications of biodiversity loss and the importance of conservation efforts.
Create an Infographic on Mass Extinctions
Show steps
Develop a visual representation of the causes, consequences, and trends of mass extinctions, enhancing understanding and retention.
Browse courses on
Infographics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather data and research on the different mass extinctions that have occurred on Earth.
- Design the infographic using a visually appealing format that effectively communicates the information.
- Include clear and concise explanations of the causes and consequences of mass extinctions.
- Use a variety of visual elements such as charts, graphs, and images to convey information.
Attend a Conservation Conference or Webinar
Show steps
Engage with experts and professionals in the field of extinction research and conservation, broadening perspectives and fostering connections.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research upcoming conservation conferences or webinars related to extinction.
- Attend sessions and workshops led by leading scientists and researchers.
- Network with other attendees, including conservationists, ecologists, and policymakers.
Volunteer at a Local Environmental Organization
Show steps
Gain practical experience in environmental protection and conservation, deepening understanding of the importance of preserving biodiversity.
Browse courses on
Environmental Conservation
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and contact local environmental organizations that focus on conservation or extinction prevention.
- Inquire about volunteer opportunities and select a role that aligns with your interests and skills.
- Participate in activities such as habitat restoration, species monitoring, or educational outreach.
Career center
Learners who complete Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Paleontologist
Paleontologist
Paleontologists who study mass extinctions can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the current mass extinction event and its potential impact on the planet. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for conservation efforts to protect species from extinction and to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists who study mass extinctions can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the environmental impacts of mass extinctions and to develop mitigation strategies. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife biologists who study mass extinctions can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the threats to wildlife and to develop management strategies to protect them. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologist
Conservation biologists who study mass extinctions can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the threats to species and to develop conservation strategies to protect them. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect species and their habitats.
Ecologist
Ecologist
Ecologists who study mass extinctions can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the ecological impacts of mass extinctions and to develop mitigation strategies. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Geologist
Geologist
Geologists who study mass extinctions can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the causes and effects of mass extinctions. They may also use their knowledge to develop new methods for identifying and mitigating the effects of mass extinctions.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts who specialize in environmental policy can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the policy implications of mass extinctions and to develop policy recommendations to protect species and their habitats. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental lawyers who specialize in conservation law can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the legal implications of mass extinctions and to develop legal strategies to protect species and their habitats. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Science Writer
Science Writer
Science writers who specialize in environmental topics can use the knowledge gained in this course to write articles and books about mass extinctions and their impact on the planet. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Graphic designer
Graphic designer
Graphic designers who specialize in environmental design can use the knowledge gained in this course to better create designs that promote the protection of species and their habitats. They may also use their designs to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers who specialize in science education can use the knowledge gained in this course to better teach students about mass extinctions and their impact on the planet. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Photographer
Photographer
Photographers who specialize in nature photography can use the knowledge gained in this course to better photograph the effects of mass extinctions on the planet. They may also use their photographs to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists who specialize in environmental reporting can use the knowledge gained in this course to better report on mass extinctions and their impact on the planet. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Filmmaker
Filmmaker
Filmmakers who specialize in documentaries about environmental issues can use the knowledge gained in this course to better produce films about mass extinctions and their impact on the planet. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum curators who specialize in natural history can use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand the history of mass extinctions and to develop exhibits that educate the public about the importance of protecting species and their habitats. They may also use their knowledge to advocate for policies that protect the environment and reduce the risk of future mass extinctions.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hlkepy/extinctions
Reading list
We've selected seven 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
Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the five mass extinctions that have occurred in Earth's history, and it explores the current extinction crisis. It well-written and engaging book that is accessible to a general audience.
Save
Provides a detailed account of the five mass extinctions that have occurred in Earth's history. It more technical book than "The Sixth Extinction", but it is still accessible to a general audience.
Save
Explores the future of life on Earth. It discusses the threats that humans pose to the planet, and it offers a vision for a sustainable future.
Explores the philosophical implications of extinction. It discusses the meaning of extinction, and it asks what we can learn from the past extinctions.
Provides a detailed account of the rise and fall of the dinosaurs. It well-written and engaging book that is accessible to a general audience.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Great Dying, the largest mass extinction in Earth's history. It more technical book than "The Sixth Extinction", but it is still accessible to a general audience.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of vertebrates. It more technical book than "The Sixth Extinction", but it is still accessible to a general audience.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hlkepy/extinctions
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Effort
5 weeks of study, 2-3 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Emory University
Instructor
Anthony J. Martin
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
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Good to know
Emphasizes the importance of paleontology and geological study, which are foundational concepts in understanding extinctions
Delivered by Anthony J. Martin, an established instructor in the field
Covers a wide range of topics on extinctions, catering to diverse interests
Offers portable handouts, lively demonstrations, and quizzes to enhance learning
May require prior knowledge of natural history or geology for a comprehensive understanding
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