Mountains 101 from Coursera

Mountains 101 is a broad and integrated overview of the mountain world. This 12-lesson course covers an interdisciplinary field of study focusing on the physical, biological, and human dimensions of mountain places in Alberta, Canada, and around the world. Specifically, we'll study the geological origins of mountains, how they’re built-up and worn-down over time; we’ll learn about their importance for biodiversity and water cycles, globally and locally; we’ll explore their cultural significance to societies around the globe, and how that relationship has evolved over time; and we’ll learn how mountains are used, how they’re protected, and how today they’re experiencing rapid change in a warming climate.

At the end of each lesson, Mountains 101 will also provide learners with some smart tricks -- Tech Tips -- to safely enjoy time in the high alpine environment: from how to pick the best footwear for hiking to making smart decisions in avalanche terrain.

We’ll be delivering your online lessons from valley bottoms to mountaintops, from museums and labs, to alpine huts and other spectacular alpine sites, and we’ll do so with the help of a whole host of experts.

We invite you to join us for this online adventure! The mountains are calling...

What's inside

Syllabus

Lesson 1: Why Mountains Matter

In this introductory lesson, you will learn why mountain environments are relevant to people all around the globe. We’ll also define just what a “mountain” is in order to show why it is useful to think about mountains from various perspectives. TechTip: Your feet are your vehicle

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners

Examines highly relevant topics to industry and academia

Taught by instructors who are recognized for their work in the field

Offers a broad and interdisciplinary overview of mountain environments

Reviews summary

Comprehensive mountain world overview

According to students, Mountains 101 is a largely positive and comprehensive overview of mountain environments. Learners particularly appreciate the interdisciplinary approach, which expertly covers everything from geology and climate to cultural significance and biodiversity. Many found the lectures highly engaging, featuring expert instructors and spectacular on-location filming that brings the subject matter to life. The inclusion of practical Tech Tips for alpine safety and outdoor preparedness is frequently highlighted as a unique and valuable addition. While providing a broad foundation, some note its introductory depth, making it ideal for hobbyists and beginners rather than advanced specialists seeking in-depth research.

Features engaging instructors and high-quality, visually rich course delivery.

"The instructors were clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making complex topics easy to understand."

"The video quality and on-location filming were superb, truly enhancing the learning experience and bringing the mountains to life."

"I found the lectures captivating; the experts' insights and the beautiful scenery made it feel like an adventure."

Provides valuable, real-world advice for safe outdoor mountain enjoyment.

"The 'Tech Tips' were a brilliant addition, giving practical advice on everything from footwear to avalanche safety."

"I appreciated the actionable safety tips that complement the academic material, making the course very well-rounded."

"Learning about mountain safety and preparedness alongside the science was unexpected but incredibly useful for my hiking trips."

Offers a rich, engaging, and comprehensive study of mountain worlds.

"I really enjoyed the broad range of topics covered, from geology to human culture; it truly felt like a holistic view of mountains."

"The course took me on an incredible journey, exploring mountains from so many angles, far beyond just climbing or geography."

"This course connected so many dots for me about mountain ecosystems, climate, and human interaction, presented in a captivating way."

Suited for beginners and general interest, less for advanced study.

"As a beginner, I found the course perfect, but those seeking deep scientific dives might find it a bit too introductory."

"I appreciated the overview, but if you're already very knowledgeable about mountains, it might not offer much new information."

"It's a great starting point for anyone curious about mountains, but I'd need to seek out more specialized courses for advanced 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 Mountains 101 with these activities:

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Begin the course by compiling all materials from the syllabus into one location, as this will make it easier to access them as they are needed.

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Create separate folders or sections for different types of materials
Review materials periodically
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Career center

Learners who complete Mountains 101 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Environmental Engineer

An **Environmental Engineer** designs solutions to improve the quality of air, water, and land. They work to protect human health and the environment. The Mountains 101 course can be a valuable learning experience for someone in this field. The course covers topics such as the impact of human activities on the environment and how to protect ecosystems. This knowledge can be valuable to an Environmental Engineer who is working to develop sustainable solutions to environmental problems.

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Geologist

A **Geologist** studies the Earth's physical structure and history. They work to understand the processes that shape the Earth's surface and identify natural resources. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the geological processes that create mountains. This knowledge can be valuable to a Geologist who is working to understand the Earth's history and identify natural resources.

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Hydrologist

A **Hydrologist** studies the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth. They work to understand the water cycle and how it is affected by human activities. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the hydrological processes that occur in mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to a Hydrologist who is working to understand the water cycle and manage water resources.

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Glaciologist

A **Glaciologist** studies glaciers and ice caps. They work to understand the processes that form and move glaciers and how they are affected by climate change. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the physical processes that create glaciers. This knowledge can be valuable to a Glaciologist who is working to understand glaciers and climate change.

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Ecologist

An **Ecologist** studies the interactions between organisms and their environment. They work to understand how ecosystems function and how they are affected by human activities. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the ecological processes that occur in mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to an Ecologist who is working to understand ecosystems and manage natural resources.

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Conservationist

A **Conservationist** works to protect and preserve natural resources. They work to develop and implement conservation plans and policies. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the environmental issues facing mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to a Conservationist who is working to develop and implement conservation plans and policies.

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Environmental Scientist

An **Environmental Scientist** studies the environment and its components. They work to understand the impact of human activities on the environment and how to protect it. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the environmental issues facing mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to an Environmental Scientist who is working to understand the environment and protect it.

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Environmental Planner

An **Environmental Planner** develops and implements plans to protect the environment. They work with communities, businesses, and government agencies to develop sustainable solutions to environmental problems. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the environmental issues facing mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to an Environmental Planner who is working to develop and implement plans to protect the environment.

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Geotechnical Engineer

A **Geotechnical Engineer** designs and builds structures that are safe and stable. They work to understand the properties of soil and rock and how they can be used to support structures. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the geological processes that create mountains. This knowledge can be valuable to a Geotechnical Engineer who is working to understand the properties of soil and rock and how they can be used to support structures.

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Park Ranger

A **Park Ranger** protects and manages natural resources in parks and other protected areas. They work to ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience while also protecting the environment. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the environmental issues facing mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to a Park Ranger who is working to protect and manage natural resources.

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Science Writer

A **Science Writer** communicates complex scientific information to a non-scientific audience. They work to make science accessible and engaging to the public. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the scientific research that is being conducted in mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to a Science Writer who is working to communicate complex scientific information to a non-scientific audience.

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Outdoor Educator

An **Outdoor Educator** teaches people about the natural world. They work to promote environmental awareness and stewardship. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the environmental issues facing mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to an Outdoor Educator who is working to teach people about the natural world and promote environmental awareness and stewardship.

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Cartographer

A **Cartographer** creates maps and other visual representations of geographic data. They work to ensure that maps are accurate and easy to use. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the geography of mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to a Cartographer who is working to create maps and other visual representations of geographic data.

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Museum curator

A **Museum Curator** manages and interprets museum collections. They work to make museum collections accessible to the public and promote learning. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the history and culture of mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to a Museum Curator who is working to manage and interpret museum collections.

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Geographer

A **Geographer** studies the Earth's surface and its human and physical features. They work to understand the interactions between people and the environment. The Mountains 101 course may be useful for someone interested in this career because it provides an overview of the physical and human geography of mountain environments. This knowledge can be valuable to a Geographer who is working to understand the interactions between people and the environment.

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