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Extinctions

Past, Present, & Future

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.

Regardless of your familiarity with the topic, you'll get portable handouts, lively demonstrations, and quizzes that bridge and enhance your knowledge.

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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

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
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

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Comprehensive journey through extinctions

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive and highly engaging exploration of mass extinctions. Students consistently praise the instructor's passion and clarity, making complex topics accessible. The course provides a well-structured overview from historical events to current challenges, with useful handouts and lively demonstrations that enhance understanding. While generally well-received, some noted it serves as a broad introduction rather than an in-depth study, making it ideal for those new to the subject. This comprehensive approach ensures a solid foundational understanding.
Earlier concerns about audio quality appear to have been addressed.
"Lectures were okay, but the sound quality in some early videos was a bit off, which was a minor distraction initially."
"I found the video and audio quality to be consistently clear and professional throughout the course, no issues there."
"All lectures were easy to follow with excellent audio-visuals, suggesting that any past production issues have been resolved."
Suited for learners of all familiarity levels.
"It's accessible for all levels of familiarity, providing a solid foundation without requiring prior scientific background."
"I appreciated how complex concepts were made easy to grasp, even without prior knowledge, thanks to clear explanations."
"This course is excellent for beginners, offering a clear and understandable entry point into the topic of extinctions."
Features demonstrations, handouts, and quizzes.
"The demonstrations were a highlight, making complex concepts easy to grasp and visually compelling."
"The handouts were genuinely portable and useful for review, and quizzes effectively reinforced my learning."
"I found the lively demonstrations particularly helpful for visualizing key concepts and understanding their impact."
Offers a wide-ranging overview of extinction events.
"The syllabus covers a wide range of periods, from pre-human past to current events, providing a holistic view."
"This course truly broadened my understanding of mass extinction events, covering past, present, and future comprehensively."
"I found the balance between historical context and current environmental challenges perfect and highly relevant."
The professor's delivery and passion are highly praised.
"Absolutely fascinating course! The instructor's passion for the subject is infectious, making the content truly come alive."
"This course exceeded my expectations; the instructor made what could be a heavy topic both understandable and incredibly interesting."
"I really enjoyed the instructor's clear explanations and how engaging they made the lectures, keeping me hooked throughout."
Provides a good overview but not deep specialized study.
"Good overview, but I felt it stayed quite high-level for someone with a bit of background hoping for more depth."
"While a solid introduction, I was hoping for more depth in certain areas, particularly the modern extinction crisis."
"The course is an excellent starting point, but don't expect highly specialized or advanced material on specific topics."

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.

Career center

Learners who complete Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Paleontologist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geologist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation 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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Wildlife Biologist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Ecologist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Filmmaker
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Photographer
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic designer

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.
Cover image
The Sixth Extinction (10th Anniversary Edition)
Save
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.
The Sixth Extinction (Tenth Anniversary Edition)
Audible Audiobook
$$
Cover image
The Trials of Gaia
Save
Provides a detailed account of the five mass extinctions that have occurred in Earth's history. It more technical book than "The Sixth Extinction", but it is still accessible to a general audience.
The Trials of Gaia: Milestones in the Evolution of...
Hardcover
$$
The Trials of Gaia: Milestones in the Evolution of...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Microlands
Save
Explores the future of life on Earth. It discusses the threats that humans pose to the planet, and it offers a vision for a sustainable future.
Microlands: The Future of Life on Earth (and Why...
Audible Audiobook
$$
Cover image
Catastrophic Thinking
Save
Explores the philosophical implications of extinction. It discusses the meaning of extinction, and it asks what we can learn from the past extinctions.
Catastrophic Thinking: Extinction and the Value of...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The Rise and Reign of the Mammals
Save
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.
The Rise and Reign of the Mammals
Paperback
Check
The Rise and Reign of the Mammals
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Extinctions
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.
Extinctions: How Life Survives, Adapts and Evolves
Hardcover
$$
When Life Nearly Died: The Greatest Mass Extinction...
Hardcover
$$
Extinctions: How Life Survives, Adapts and Evolves
Kindle Edition
$$
When Life Nearly Died: The Greatest Mass Extinction...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Vertebrate Paleontology and Evolution
Save
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.
(Deutsch) Vertebrate Paleontology and Evolution
Hardcover
$$$$

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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 Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
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
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