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Professor Daniel Chamovitz, Ph.D.

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.

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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

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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.
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What a Plant Sees?
This week we start a systematic review of a plant's sensory systems by starting with plant responses to light. We will cover an overview of human vision, plant responses to light, Darwin's experiments showing plant responses to light, phototropism, phytochrome and flowering, and modern research on phototropism. In other words, this week we get into more advanced concepts in plant sensory biology. The last module is especially advanced, and will be clearer for those of you with a strong biology background. But do not fret, aside from very basic concepts, this module will NOT be included in the exam (you will not be responsible for understanding the intricacies of the experimental methods, etc.). If you have not already, please review the Course Syllabus for general information about this course.
What a Plant Smells?
This week we continue our systematic review of a plant's sensory systems by exploring responses to volatile chemicals (in other words, what a plant smells). We start with an overview of the plant cell, briefly review human olfaction (smell), and then explore how fruits know when to ripen. From there we go over three different experiments that explore plant responses to volatile chemicals and start exploring the controversial question, "Do plants communicate with each other?".
What a Plant Feels?
This week we continue our systematic review of a plant's sensory systems by exploring responses to tactile stimulation (in other words, what a plant feels). We start with an overview of the mechano-sensory system that differentiates between different tactile stimulations, briefly review the way electricity is used in neural communication, and then explore how the Venus flytrap knows when to close, and what powers the opening and closing of the Mimosa leaves. We'll learn how plants change their structure to cope with windy conditions, and go over some of the rather complex biology that is involved in the genetic response in plants to being touched. I'll let you know what I think of the question, Do plants feel pain? And then we'll try to understand whether plants hear, and if they do, which music they prefer.
How a Plant Knows Where it is?
This week we continue our systematic review of a plant's sensory systems by exploring the 6th sense - proprioception. We start with an overview of the proprioceptive system that allows us to keep our balance and to know where are body parts are in space. Theמ we will explore how plants know up from down, using both experiments from a few hundred years ago, and experiments conducted on the space station. We'll go over the structure of roots more in detail in order to understand where the cells are that sense gravity. We'll revisit phototropism, and learn what the chemical signal is in plants that allows them to respond to light and gravity. And lastly, we'll learn what makes a plant dance.
What a Plant Remembers?
This week we move beyond survey of a plant's sensory systems, and explore how plants retain, store and recall sensory information. In other words, we ask the questions, What do plants remember? We'll try to define what we mean by "memory" and briefly review different types of human memory. The we'll look at the short-term memory found in the Venus fly trap, and the long term morphogenic memory first described 50 years ago by the Czech scientist Rudolf Dostal. We'll have a guest lecture from Prof. Nir Ohad about epigenetics and the long-term memory of winter, and even the role of epigenetics in trans-generational memory.
The Aware Plant
This is the final week in our journey through a plant's sense of the world. This week's lecture has two separate parts. In the first part, we continue last week's discussion of a plant's ability to remember to a more theoretical discussion on the definition of memory and consciousness. This leads us to the question, "Are plants intelligent?". We'll hear what some of the students in this class think of intelligence before finishing with a quick examination of "intelligence", and end with my own take on a plant's, and our place, in the world. In the second part we'll go for a tour of my lab and see our plant growth facilities. I'll give you a brief overview of one of the projects in my lab, and you'll meet a few of the students doing the research. And in the end, you'll even get to meet Dr. Aviva Katz.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, 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

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Reviews summary

Plants sense their world

learners say Dr. Chamovitz is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic instructor who presents well received information in an engaging way. Despite botany often being considered a dry subject, students comment that this course brings new life to the field and has them approaching plants with a new sense of respect and interest. Many students had no prior biology knowledge but found the explanations clear, and others with more background knowledge say their understanding has deepened. Many mention that they are eager to take the next course in this series. Researchers and concepts are well-sourced throughout the course, and students appreciate the links to external resources for further learning.
Many students express a new appreciation for plants after taking this course. They often mention how it has changed their perspective and made the subject more interesting or even sparked new research interests. The course has helped students better understand the world of plants, which some had previously taken for granted.
"It was a very good and inspiring course: ) "
"E​xcellent course!A​n eye opener about plants!"
"This course was very challenging but worth it."
learners appreciate the thorough coverage of plant biology in this course. They note that the engaging assignments and explanations are well-suited to all levels and are presented in a well organized way. The instructor’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and clear explanations stand out as positive qualities of the course.
"Thorough coverage, engaging presentation."
"The way sir teaches this course is awesome."
"Excellent course for basic plant biology!"
Almost all students praise Professor Chamovitz for his engaging and approachable teaching style. They describe him as an enthusiastic and knowledgeable instructor who presents complex material in an accessible way. He is also responsive to student questions and provides opportunities for interactions.
"Outstanding course for basic plant biology!"
"Excellent course! I enjoyed it completely! "
"Very informative, well designed and layout."
A couple learners raise concerns about the lack of feedback provided with the difficult exams. They note that the quizzes are challenging and require a lot of time and effort, but they do not provide enough information about what answers were incorrect or why. This can make it difficult for students to learn from their mistakes and improve their understanding of the material.
"The quizzes were full of typos and don't seem to have been proofread at all."
"The subtitles for the videos are very wrong, especially when it comes to scientific terms."
A few learners warn that the difficult exams should not be taken lightly. They advise students to take their time with the course, read all materials, and prepare thoroughly for each quiz or exam. Despite the challenges, students generally agree that the difficulty of the assessments is fair and that the effort required to do well is worth it.
"The course is extensive, and the tests are a challenge."

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
Reinforce your understanding of plant terminology through interactive exercises, improving your ability to describe and communicate about plant structures.
Show steps
  • Use online resources or textbooks to review plant terminology.
  • Complete quizzes or flashcards to test your knowledge of terms.
Plant Physiology and Development
Review the fundamental concepts of plant physiology and development to strengthen your understanding of how plants function.
Show steps
  • 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
Gain insights into the fascinating world of plant communication and explore the scientific evidence behind plant intelligence and behavior.
Show steps
  • 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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Plant Growth Experiment
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.
Show steps
  • 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
Engage in discussions with your peers to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and gain diverse perspectives on plant-related topics.
Show steps
  • 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
Contribute to scientific research and conservation efforts by participating in open-source projects that collect and share plant data.
Browse courses on Open Data
Show steps
  • 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Reading list

We've selected 14 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 Understanding Plants - Part I: What a Plant Knows.
A comprehensive encyclopedia that provides detailed information on all aspects of plant physiology.
Explores the sensory biology of plants, focusing on the latest research on how plants perceive and respond to their environment. It complements the course's focus on plant senses by providing in-depth coverage of specific sensory systems.
A collection of review articles on plant developmental biology, providing an in-depth understanding of the latest research in this field.
A comprehensive textbook on molecular plant biology, providing a detailed understanding of the genetic and molecular basis of plant growth and development.
A textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and methods of plant systematics.
A textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of plants, from their origins to their diversification.
A widely used textbook in plant science. will provide a thorough foundation in plant biology and physiology, building on the concepts introduced in the course.
A textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and methods of plant taxonomy.
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A comprehensive reference on plant cell biology, providing a detailed understanding of the structure and function of plant cells.
A textbook that examines the interactions between plants and their environment, including the effects of abiotic and biotic factors.
A widely used textbook in plant ecology, providing a thorough understanding of the interactions between plants and their environment.
A textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and applications of plant biotechnology.
Provides an overview of the principles and techniques used in plant biotechnology, complementing the course's discussion of the applications of plant biology in modern agriculture.

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