Bugs 101: Insect-Human Interactions from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 01: Introduction to Insects and their Terrestrial Relatives

Arthropods, which includes insects, are the most speciose group of animals on the planet. In this module, we explore some of the traits that have allowed insects to dominate terrestrial landscapes around the world, and introduce you to the major insect orders you’ll deal with in the course.

Module 02: The Business of Being an Insect Part 1

What makes an insect an insect? How do these strange creatures operate? This module begins to uncover the inner workings of insects, starting with the digestive and circulatory systems.

Module 03: The Business of Being an Insect Part 2

Building on the previous module, we continue to explore insect biology through an overview of the major physiological systems of insects. We look at the nervous and reproductive systems, and highlight some of the ways insects court, seduce, and reproduce.

Module 04: Insect Locomotion

Did you know that insects are the strongest animals in the world for their size? Find out what makes insects so strong in this module, in which we introduce insect musculature and how they use it to get around. From swimming to flying, we explore the many ways insects move and the specialized appendages they've evolved to do so.

Module 05: Insects as Decomposers

Without decomposers, dead trees and leaves would pile up in forests, and we would be walking knee deep in dung and animal carcasses. Insect decomposers help to recycle these materials and many others back into the earth, recycling the nutrients to be used by other organisms again. This module unearths the importance of these decomposers to our ecosystem, and even discusses some ways these insects can be used to help solve crimes.

Module 06: Plant Feeding and Impacts of Herbivory

This module focuses on the vegetarians of the insect world. A long evolutionary history with plants has led to the development of some interesting feeding strategies in insects, and some wild defenses in the plants they eat. Some of these herbivores can be important pests, and may change entire ecosystems through their feeding.

Module 07: Pollination and Beekeeping

Over millions of years, pollinators have formed a close relationship with flowering plants, and have helped shape our society and the world around us. Today, many crops are reliant on pollinating insects, and entire industries have been developed around beekeeping. We explore pollination and beekeeping in this module, and discuss some of the challenges pollinators face in our rapidly changing world.

Module 08: Insects and Disease

Many globally important diseases can be transmitted by insects, and insects themselves can present a nuisance in some situations. This module compares different modes of disease transmission, and highlights some important diseases of plants, humans, and other animals.

Module 09: Sustainable Human-Insect Interactions: IPM

Integrated pest management (IPM) is a pillar of modern crop production, and the preservation of ecosystem function/health. A variety of chemical pesticides can be a part of IPM programs. The different insecticides available to manage insect pests vary in many regards, such as their modes of action and application. The use of these pesticides is not without risks, however, and these must be considered if we want to reap the benefits these chemicals can provide.

Module 10: Sustainable Human-Insect Interactions: IPM (Biological and Cultural Control)

Biological and cultural control strategies are critical components of IPM systems that allow us to control pests in different ways, and reduce the input of chemical pesticides into the environment. This module introduces these two approaches, and a wide variety of biological control agents which can be employed to control insect pests.

Module 11: Insect Conservation

Many of us have thought at one time or another that the world may be better off without pest insects like mosquitoes. This module aims to change that view, as we discuss the importance of insect conservation and the variety of ways the changing world impacts insect populations.

Module 12: Insects in Human Culture

Entomologists are not the only ones to be inspired by the insect world. From historical myths and folklore, to modern art, film, and even video games; insects and other arthropods have appeared throughout human culture. They have even influenced the development of new technologies, and could be part of the solution to global issues like food shortages.

Module 13: Bugs 101 Wrap Up

We hope that you have enjoyed the course, and walk away with a newfound appreciation for the insect world. Check out this module to hear about your instructors favourite insects, and don’t forget to complete the post-course quiz to see if your perceptions have changed!

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers fundamental insect concepts, making it an accessible starting point for beginners in entomology

Explores the diverse roles insects play in human society, from beneficial pollination to disease transmission

Taught by Dr. Maya Evenden, an experienced entomologist with expertise in insect-human interactions

Requires some background knowledge in biology, particularly in ecology and evolution

Reviews summary

Entomology and interconnections

Learners say this course opened their eyes to the vast world of interactions between insects and humans. According to students, the course is well-liked for its engaging assignments, in-depth content, accessible explanations, and diverse perspectives. The course covers a wide range of topics, from insect biology and anatomy to their roles in pollination, food production, and disease transmission. Students highly recommend this course, calling it one of the best online courses they have taken. They note that the enthusiasm and expertise of the instructors make the material engaging and accessible, even for those with little prior knowledge of entomology. Overall, learners say this course is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about insects and their multifaceted relationships with the world around them. They recommend the course to students of all levels, as well as to anyone with a general interest in nature and the environment.

Learners valued the inclusion of multiple perspectives and disciplines within the course. Interviews with scientists, researchers, and industry professionals provided a well-rounded understanding of the field of entomology and its practical applications.

"The course covered a lot of ground and is accessible for beginners. I wish someone would come up with a similar course for vascular plants."

"Fascinating topic, well-designed materials, beautifully presented by excellent presenters. I really enjoyed this course and learned so much!"

Students praised the course's interactive quizzes, hands-on capstone project, and discussion forums. These assignments helped them retain information and apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

"The interactive quizzes really motivated me to study (and hopefully retain the information)."

"The capstone project was also very enjoyable – it challenged me to think for myself and adjust my strategy based on the first report."

Students commended the instructors for their clear and engaging explanations, which made the material accessible to learners of all levels. The use of visuals, examples, and analogies helped to simplify complex concepts and foster understanding.

"The instructors present the teaching units in a very understandable (even for non-native speakers) and motivating way."

"The video quality is also excellent."

Learners found the material to be comprehensive and detailed, covering a wide range of topics related to insects and their interactions with humans. They appreciated the inclusion of interviews with experts in various fields, which provided diverse perspectives and practical insights.

"I learned a great deal about insects and their impact on the human world."

"The interviews were an lovely treat as well. I have a much greater understanding and appreciation for insects now."

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 Bugs 101: Insect-Human Interactions with these activities:

Review Basic Biology Concepts

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Review key biological concepts to strengthen your foundation and prepare for the course content.

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Read through high school biology textbooks or notes.
Take practice quizzes or review diagrams.

Attend a local entomology meet-up

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Connect with fellow insect enthusiasts, share your interests, and expand your network to deepen your engagement with the material.

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Search online for entomology meet-up groups in your area
Join the group and attend a meet-up
Introduce yourself and share your interests

Explore Tarantula Collective tutorials on insect collection

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Expand your knowledge of insect collection techniques to enhance your understanding of insect diversity covered in the course.

Browse courses on Arthropods

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Review the Tarantula Collective website
Choose a tutorial that focuses on insect collection
Practice the techniques described in the tutorial

Six other activities

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Form a study group for discussing insect biology

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Engage with course material through peer-led discussions, solidifying your understanding of insect biology.

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Reach out to classmates and invite them to join a study group
Choose a meeting time and place
Prepare discussion topics based on course material

Design a bug ID infographic

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Create an infographic that helps you easily identify common insects you might observe in your area to reinforce class material on insect diversity.

Browse courses on Identification

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Gather photos of common insects in your area
Research key identifying characteristics of each insect
Design the infographic in an accessible and visually appealing manner

Review 'The Insect Crisis' by Oliver Milman

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Gain insights into the current challenges facing insects and their impact on our world, expanding your understanding of the importance of insect conservation.

View The Insect Crisis: The Fall of the Tiny Empires... on Amazon

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Read Chapters 1 and 3 of the book
Summarize the main points
Reflect on the implications of the material for insect conservation

Develop an insect-inspired art project

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Reinforce your understanding of insect adaptations and their significance by creating an art project inspired by an insect's unique features.

Browse courses on Art

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Research different insect adaptations
Choose an adaptation to focus on
Design an art project that incorporates the chosen adaptation
Create the art project

Build an insect-friendly garden

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Put your knowledge of insect biology and ecology into practice by creating an environment that supports insect populations.

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Design your insect-friendly garden
Choose native plants that attract beneficial insects
Provide sources of food, water, and shelter for insects
Observe and record the insects that visit your garden

Mentor a younger student interested in entomology

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Deepen your understanding of course material by sharing your knowledge and guiding a younger student interested in entomology.

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Reach out to local schools or youth organizations
Offer your services as a mentor
Meet with your mentee regularly to share your knowledge and provide guidance

Career center

Learners who complete Bugs 101: Insect-Human Interactions will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Entomologist

Entomologists study insects and their interactions with humans and the environment. This course provides a comprehensive overview of entomology, including insect biology, behavior, and ecology. The knowledge gained in this course is essential for Entomologists to conduct research, develop pest management strategies, and contribute to the conservation of insects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Entomologist

Conservation Scientist

Conservation Scientists work to protect and manage natural resources, including insects. This course provides a comprehensive overview of insect conservation, including the threats facing insects and the strategies used to protect them. The knowledge gained in this course can help Conservation Scientists develop effective conservation plans and advocate for the protection of insects and their habitats.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Scientist

Medical Entomologist

Medical Entomologists study insects that affect human health. This course provides a comprehensive overview of insect-borne diseases, including their transmission, prevention, and control. The knowledge gained in this course can help Medical Entomologists develop effective strategies to prevent and control insect-borne diseases and protect public health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Entomologist

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists investigate the causes and spread of diseases, including those transmitted by insects. This course provides a comprehensive overview of insect-borne diseases, including their transmission, prevention, and control. The knowledge gained in this course can help Epidemiologists develop effective strategies to prevent and control insect-borne diseases and protect public health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Pest Management Professional

Pest Management Professionals develop and implement strategies to control pests, including insects. This course provides a comprehensive overview of insect biology, behavior, and ecology. The knowledge gained in this course can help Pest Management Professionals identify and control insect pests in a variety of settings, including homes, businesses, and agricultural fields.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pest Management Professional

Veterinarian

Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases in animals, including those caused by insects. This course provides a comprehensive overview of insect-borne diseases, including their transmission, prevention, and control. The knowledge gained in this course can help Veterinarians recognize and treat insect-borne diseases in animals and provide appropriate patient care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Veterinarian

Physician

Physicians diagnose and treat diseases, including those caused by insects. This course provides a comprehensive overview of insect-borne diseases, including their transmission, prevention, and control. The knowledge gained in this course can help Physicians recognize and treat insect-borne diseases and provide appropriate patient care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician

Agricultural and Food Scientist

Agricultural and Food Scientists apply biological, chemical, and physical sciences, including entomology, to improve the efficiency of producing, processing, and distributing agricultural products. This course provides a comprehensive overview of insect-human interactions, including their roles in pollination, pest control, and disease transmission, which are all important factors in agricultural production. The knowledge gained in this course can help Agricultural and Food Scientists make informed decisions to optimize agricultural practices and ensure the safety and quality of food products.

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Forensic Entomologist

Forensic Entomologists use insects to investigate crimes. This course provides a strong foundation in entomology, including insect biology, behavior, and ecology. The knowledge gained in this course can help Forensic Entomologists determine the time and cause of death, and identify the location of a crime scene.

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Geneticist

Geneticists study genes and heredity. This course provides a strong foundation in insect genetics, including the inheritance of traits and the evolution of insect populations. The knowledge gained in this course can help Geneticists understand the genetic basis of insect biology and behavior, and develop new strategies to control insect pests and diseases.

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Pharmacologist

Pharmacologists study the effects of drugs on living organisms, including insects. This course provides a strong foundation in insect biology, including their anatomy, physiology, and behavior. The knowledge gained in this course can help Pharmacologists develop new drugs and treatments for insect-borne diseases.

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Microbiologist

Microbiologists study microorganisms, including insects. This course provides a strong foundation in insect biology, including their anatomy, physiology, and behavior. The knowledge gained in this course can help Microbiologists understand the role of insects in the transmission of diseases and develop new strategies to control insect-borne diseases.

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Biologist

Biologists study living organisms and their interactions with each other and their environment. This course provides a solid foundation in entomology, which is the study of insects, and explores their diverse roles in ecosystems. The knowledge gained in this course can help Biologists understand the complex relationships between insects and other organisms, and how these interactions shape the natural world.

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Ecologist

Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. This course provides a strong foundation in entomology, which is the study of insects, and explores their roles in ecosystems. The knowledge gained in this course can help Ecologists understand the complex relationships between insects and other organisms, and how these interactions shape the natural world.

See salaries and explore the career path for Ecologist

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists work to protect and manage the environment. This course provides a strong foundation in entomology, which is the study of insects, and explores their roles in ecosystems. The knowledge gained in this course can help Environmental Scientists understand the complex relationships between insects and the environment, and how human activities can impact these relationships.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist