Understanding Plants - Part I: What a Plant Knows from Coursera

For centuries we have collectively marveled at plant diversity and form—from Charles Darwin’s early fascination with stems and flowers to Seymour Krelborn’s distorted doting in Little Shop of Horrors. This course intends to present an intriguing and scientifically valid look at how plants themselves experience the world—from the colors they see to the sensations they feel. Highlighting the latest research in genetics and more, we will delve into the inner lives of plants and draw parallels with the human senses to reveal that we have much more in common with sunflowers and oak trees than we may realize. We’ll learn how plants know up from down, how they know when a neighbor has been infested by a group of hungry beetles, and whether they appreciate the music you’ve been playing for them or if they’re just deaf to the sounds around them. We’ll explore definitions of memory and consciousness as they relate to plants in asking whether we can say that plants might even be aware of their surroundings. This highly interdisciplinary course meshes historical studies with cutting edge modern research and will be relevant to all humans who seek their place in nature.

This class has three main goals: 1. To introduce you to basic plant biology by exploring plant senses (sight, smell, hearing, touch, taste, balance). 2. To introduce you to biological research and the scientific method. 3. To get the student to question life in general and what defines us as humans.

Once you've taken this course, if you are interested in a more in-depth study of plants, check out my follow-up course, Fundamentals of Plant Biology (https://www.coursera.org/learn/plant-biology/home/welcome).

In order to receive academic credit for this course you must successfully pass the academic exam on campus. For information on how to register for the academic exam – https://tauonline.tau.ac.il/registration

Additionally, you can apply to certain degrees using the grades you received on the courses. Read more on this here –

https://go.tau.ac.il/b.a/mooc-acceptance

Teachers interested in teaching this course in their class rooms are invited to explore our Academic High school program here – https://tauonline.tau.ac.il/online-highschool

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction

Welcome to "What a Plant Knows (and other things you didn't know about plants)". If you have not already, please review the Course Syllabus for general information about this course.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores the sensory experiences of plants, relating them to the human senses, providing a deeper understanding of plant life

Provides insights into the inner workings of plants, shedding light on their responses to various stimuli and challenging our understanding of plant life

Offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining historical studies with cutting-edge research, appealing to those seeking a comprehensive perspective on plant science

Incorporates hands-on activities and demonstrations, providing learners with practical experience in plant sensory biology

Instructed by Professor Daniel Chamovitz, a recognized expert in plant biology, ensuring high-quality content and insights

Offers the opportunity to earn academic credit through an on-campus exam, making it suitable for students seeking formal recognition of their learning

Reviews summary

Exploring the sensory world of plants

According to students, this course offers a fascinating journey into the often-overlooked world of plants, exploring how they perceive their environment. Learners particularly appreciate the unique and engaging topic, which draws parallels between plant and human senses. It provides a solid introduction to basic plant biology and the scientific method, grounded in latest research. Reviewers often find the content thought-provoking, challenging conventional ideas about life and intelligence. While primarily geared towards a general audience or those new to the subject, it manages to present complex biological concepts in an accessible way.

Content based on current research.

"Appreciate that the course incorporates findings from the latest research."

"The focus on scientific experiments strengthens the content."

"It's good to see modern genetics research highlighted."

Challenges views on life and intelligence.

"The discussions on memory and consciousness in plants were really thought-provoking."

"It made me question my understanding of what defines intelligence."

"Loved exploring the philosophical questions raised about plant awareness."

Provides a foundation in plant biology.

"It's a great way to get introduced to fundamental concepts in plant biology."

"The course successfully introduces basic principles and the scientific method."

"I learned foundational information about plant structure and responses."

Fascinating exploration of plant senses.

"This course presents such a unique perspective on plants, focusing on their senses."

"I was drawn to the intriguing idea of 'What a Plant Knows'."

"Exploring how plants perceive the world around them is truly captivating."

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 Understanding Plants - Part I: What a Plant Knows with these activities:

Plant Terminology Practice

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Reinforce your understanding of plant terminology through interactive exercises, improving your ability to describe and communicate about plant structures.

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Use online resources or textbooks to review plant terminology.
Complete quizzes or flashcards to test your knowledge of terms.

Plant Physiology and Development

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Review the fundamental concepts of plant physiology and development to strengthen your understanding of how plants function.

View Plant Physiology and Development on Amazon

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Read chapters 1-5 of the book.
Take notes on key concepts and definitions.
Summarize the main ideas of each chapter in your own words.
Complete the practice problems at the end of each chapter.

The Secret Life of Plants

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Gain insights into the fascinating world of plant communication and explore the scientific evidence behind plant intelligence and behavior.

View The Secret Life of Plants: a Fascinating... on Amazon

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Read the book and pay attention to the experiments and observations described.
Identify the key arguments and evidence presented by the authors.
Reflect on the implications of the book's findings for our understanding of the natural world.

Three other activities

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Plant Growth Experiment

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Conduct a controlled experiment to investigate the effects of light, water, or nutrients on plant growth, deepening your understanding of plant responses to environmental factors.

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Identify a research question and hypothesis.
Design an experiment with control and experimental groups.
Collect and analyze data.
Draw conclusions and discuss the implications of your findings.

Plant Discussion Group

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Engage in discussions with your peers to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and gain diverse perspectives on plant-related topics.

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Find a study group or online forum where you can connect with other students.
Participate in discussions and ask questions to clarify your understanding.
Share your own insights and contribute to the collective learning experience.

Contribute to Open Plant Data

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Contribute to scientific research and conservation efforts by participating in open-source projects that collect and share plant data.

Browse courses on Open Data

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Identify open-source projects related to plant science, such as iNaturalist or the Global Biodiversity Information Facility.
Learn about the data collection protocols and contribute your own observations.
Help to improve the quality of the dataset by verifying data and identifying errors.

Career center

Learners who complete Understanding Plants - Part I: What a Plant Knows will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Plant Physiologist

Plant Physiologists study the functions and processes of plants. They conduct research to understand how plants grow, develop, and interact with their environment. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Plant Physiology by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant physiology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Plant Physiologist

Botanist

Botanists study plants, including their structure, growth, reproduction, and classification. They may also study the interactions between plants and other organisms, such as animals and fungi. This course provides a comprehensive overview of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant growth and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Botanist

Ecologist

Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. They may study the effects of pollution, climate change, or other environmental factors on plants and animals. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Ecology by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant adaptation and survival in different environments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Ecologist

Horticulturist

Horticulturists grow and cultivate plants for food, ornamental, or medicinal purposes. They may also work in greenhouses or nurseries, or manage gardens and landscapes. This course provides a solid foundation for a career in Horticulture by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant growth and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Horticulturist

Plant Pathologist

Plant Pathologists study the diseases that affect plants and develop methods to control them. They may work in research, extension, or industry. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Plant Pathology by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant disease resistance and pathogenicity.

See salaries and explore the career path for Plant Pathologist

Agronomist

Agronomists study the science and practice of crop production. They may work in research, extension, or industry. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Agronomy by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying crop growth and yield.

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Forester

Foresters manage forests and other wooded areas. They may work in government, industry, or private practice. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Forestry by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying forest growth and management.

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Landscape Architect

Landscape Architects design and manage outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and campuses. They may work in government, industry, or private practice. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Landscape Architecture by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant growth and development in different environments.

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Science Writer

Science Writers communicate complex scientific concepts to a general audience. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other media outlets. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Science Writing by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant growth and development. This knowledge will help Science Writers to accurately and effectively communicate about plant science to a wide range of audiences.

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High School Biology Teacher

High School Biology Teachers educate students about the principles of biology, including plant biology. They may teach in public or private schools. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in High School Biology Teaching by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant growth and development. This knowledge will help High School Biology Teachers to effectively teach their students about plant science.

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Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and its components, and develop solutions to environmental problems. They may work in government, industry, or private practice. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Environmental Science by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant growth and development in different environments.

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Biotechnologist

Biotechnologists use biological systems to develop new products and technologies. They may work in research, development, or production. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Biotechnology by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant growth and development. This knowledge will help Biotechnologists to develop new plant-based products and technologies.

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Science Educator

Science Educators develop and implement educational programs for students of all ages. They may work in schools, museums, or other educational institutions. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Science Education by introducing students to the basic principles of plant biology, including plant senses, responses to stimuli, and memory. The course also covers cutting-edge research in plant genetics and molecular biology, which are essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying plant growth and development. This knowledge will help Science Educators to develop effective and engaging educational programs about plant science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Educator