Dinosaur Ecosystems | 恐龙的生态系统 | Los Ecosistemas de los Dinosaurios from edX

The course has a maximum 5* rating and has been taken by learners from 120+ countries. The course was a Finalist of the 2018 edX Prize for Exceptional Contributions in Online Teaching and Learning.

Ever wondered what it would be like to live in the world of dinosaurs? Yes? Well here’s your chance!

Using the Late Cretaceous fossil site of Erlian, China as an example, we bring you to the Gobi desert, as well as leading international museums and institutions to find out how we reconstruct dinosaur ecosystems.

This biology and life science course will focus on the knowledge we can gain from studying animals and plants. You will learn about a dinosaur’s biology including their appearance, classification and diet. We will take a close look at the mostly meat eating theropod dinosaurs, as well as the main plant eating dinosaurs, the sauropodomorphs and ornithischians. At the end of the course, you will learn how palaeontologists use fossil and modern evidence to reconstruct dinosaurs and their ecosystems.

The course is brought to life with the help of award-winning palaeoartist Julius T. Csotonyi and is led by HKU’s vertebrate palaeontologist Dr Michael Pittman in collaboration with his esteemed colleague Professor Xu Xing of the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Beijing, and Dr Diego Pol of the Museo Paleontologico Egidio Feruglio, Trelew, Argentina. A range of guests from around the World will also share their expertise during the course.

本课程获得最高的5星评级，学员来自超过120多个国家/地区。本课程还入选2018年edX大奖最后10强名单以表扬对网上教学和学习领域的杰出贡献。想体验一下活在恐龙世界里是怎样吗?

参加我们的免费网上学习课程，感受与恐龙同行的震撼! 以中国二连浩特白垩纪晚期的化石地层作为一个例子,我们将带您来到戈壁沙漠、著名国际博物馆及研究所去探究我们如何重建恐龙的生态系统。此生物及生命科学课程着重于研究动物和植物。您将会认到识恐龙生物学，包括恐龙的外观、分类和食物。我们将关注近乎全肉食性的兽脚类恐龙，以及主要的草食性恐龙、蜥脚形亚目和鸟臀目恐龙。在本课程的末段,您将会了解到古生物学家如何运用化石和现代的证据来重建恐龙和它们的生态系统。本课程有赖屡获殊荣的古生物复原画家Julius T. Csotonyi的帮助才得以面世,并由香港大学古脊椎动物学家文嘉棋博士、北京古脊椎动物与古人类研究所徐星教授及阿根廷古生物埃吉迪奧*費格奧博物館Diego Pol博士共同领导。世界各地不同领域的专家也将在本课程中分享他们的专业知识。

El curso posee una calificación máxima de 5* y ha sido tomado por personas de más de 120 países. El curso fue finalista en del "2018 edX Prize for Exceptional Contributions in Online Teaching and Learning".

¿Alguna vez te preguntaste cómo sería vivir en el mundo de los dinosaurios? ¿Sí? ¡Bueno, ésta es tu oportunidad!

Utilizando el yacimiento fosilífero de Erlian (China) como ejemplo, te llevamos al Desierto del Gobi y a museos e instituciones de diferentes países para mostrarte cómo reconstruimos los ecosistemas de los dinosaurios.

Este curso de biología y ciencias de la vida se centrará en el conocimiento que Podemos obtener al estudiar animales y plantas. Aprenderás acerca de la biología de los dinosaurios, incluyendo su apariencia, clasificación y dieta. Examinaremos en detalle a los mayormente carnívoros dinosaurios terópodos, así como a los más importantes dinosaurios herbívoros, los sauropodomorfos y los ornitisquios. Al finalizar el curso, aprenderás cómo los paleontólogos utilizan el registro fósil y evidencia de animales vivientes para reconstruir a los dinosaurios y a sus ecosistemas.

El curso revive a los dinosaurios con la ayuda del premiado paleoartista Julius T. Csotonyi y está guiado por Dr. Michael Pittman, paleontólogo de vertebrados de la HKU, en colaboración con grandes colegas como el Professor Xu Xing del Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (Beijing, China) y el Dr. Diego Pol del Museo Paleontológico Egidio Feruglio (Trelew, Argentina). También participan del curso una gran cantidad de invitados de diferentes partes del mundo, quienes comparten su conocimiento sobre los dinosaurios.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Dinosaur biology
How palaeontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence
The traits and significance of a late cretaceous dinosaur ecosystem
恐龙生物学
古生物学家如何运用化石及现代证据重建远古的生态系统

白垩纪晚期恐龙生态系统的特点
Biología de los dinosaurios
Cómo los paleontólogos reconstruyen ecosistemas del pasado utilizando evidencia fósil y del mundo moderno
Las características y significancia de un ecosistema del cretácico tardío poblado por dinosaurios

Dinosaur biology
How palaeontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence
The traits and significance of a late cretaceous dinosaur ecosystem
恐龙生物学
古生物学家如何运用化石及现代证据重建远古的生态系统
白垩纪晚期恐龙生态系统的特点
Biología de los dinosaurios
Cómo los paleontólogos reconstruyen ecosistemas del pasado utilizando evidencia fósil y del mundo moderno
Las características y significancia de un ecosistema del cretácico tardío poblado por dinosaurios

Syllabus

Week 1: Course overview and introduction to dinosaursOverview of the course, including an introduction to the Late Cretaceous course field site in Erlian, China. Introduction to dinosaur biology from their appearance, classification and diet to their evolution and extinction.

Weeks 2 & 3: Meat eating dinosaurs - theropodsA survey of the theropod dinosaurs discovered in Erlian, including their biology and insights into the preserved ecosystem.

Week 4: Plant eating dinosaurs - sauropodomorph and ornithischian dinosaursA survey of Erlian’s herbivores from the dominant hadrosaur ornithischian dinosaurs to rarer sauropodomorph and non-hadrosaur ornithischian dinosaurs. Learn what they tell us about herbivore biology at the time and about the local ecosystem.

Week 5: Living with dinosaursA survey of the non-dinosaur reptiles, mammals, fish and invertebrates that lived with the dinosaurs of Erlian. What roles did they play in this ecosystem?

Week 6: Bringing dinosaurs and their ecosystems to life - diet, behaviour and growth and course summaryFind out what evidence palaeontologists use to bring dinosaurs to life in seemingly impossible ways. Also, a summary of the entire course.

第 1 周 : 课程概述及介绍恐龙课程概述,介绍位于中国二连浩特白垩纪晚期的考察场地,并从外观、分类和食物以至进化及灭绝方面了解恐龙的生物学。

第 2 及 3 周 : 肉食性恐龙 - 兽脚类恐龙研究在二连浩特发现的兽脚类恐龙,包括它们的生物学和所在地之生态系统。

第 4 周 : 草食性恐龙 - 蜥脚形亚目和鸟臀目恐龙研究二连浩特的草食性动物,从占有主导地位的鸭嘴龙类鸟臀目以至较为罕见的蜥脚形亚目及非鸭嘴龙类鸟臀目恐龙。了解当时草食性动物的生物学和当地的生态系统。

第 5 周 : 与龙共存研究生活于二连浩特恐龙时期的非恐龙爬行动物、哺乳类、鱼类和无脊椎动物。它们在当时的生态系统中扮演什么样的角色?

第 6 周 : 重现恐龙及其生态系统 - 食物、行为及生长过程和课程总结了解古生物学家如何运用证据,把恐龙真实的一面带到我们面前以及整个课程的总结。

Semana 1: Síntesis del curso e introducción a los dinosaurios Síntesis del curso, incluyendo una introducción al yacimiento fosilífero del Cretácico Tardío en Erlian, China. Introducción a la biología de los dinosaurios, desde su apariencia, clasificación y dieta a la evolución y extinción de estas especies.

Semanas 2 & 3: Dinosaurios carnívoros - terópodosInvestigaremos los dinosaurios terópodos descubiertos en Erlian, incluyendo su biología y la información que nos brindan sobre los ecosistemas del pasado.

Semana 4: Dinosaurios herbívoros - sauropodomorfos y ornitisquios Investigaremos los dinosaurios herbívoros de Erlian, desde los predominantes ornitisquios hadrosaurios a las especies menos abundantes tales como los sauropodomorfos y otros tipos dinosaurios ornitisquios. Aprenderás qué nos cuentan sobre la biología de los herbívoros de esa época y de los ecosistemas locales.

Semana 5: Viviendo con los dinosaurios Investigaremos los otros reptiles, mamíferos, peces, e invertebrados que vivieron junto a los dinosaurios en Erlian. ¿Qué roles cumplieron en estos ecosistemas?

Semana 6: Reviviendo a los dinosaurios y a sus ecosistemas - dieta, comportamiento y crecimiento. Resumen del curso. Averiguaremos las asombrosas evidencias que utilizan los paleontólogos para mostrar cómo vivían los dinosaurios. Al finalizar esta semana también realizaremos un resumen de todo el curso.

Good to know

Know what's good

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, and possible dealbreakers

Develops dinosaur biology, how ancient ecosystems are reconstructed, and Late Cretaceous dinosaur ecosystems, which are specialized and deep topics in paleontology

Designed for learners with an interest in dinosaurs and/or paleontology

Taught by recognized paleontologists from HKU, the Beijing Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, and the Museo Paleontologico Egidio Feruglio

Covers fascinating topics like the plant eating sauropodomorphs and ornithischians, which help learners understand herbivore biology

Multi-modal with a range of media, including videos, readings, discussions, and the help of a paleoartist

Reviews summary

Engaging dinosaur ecology course

Learners say that this engaging Dinosaur Ecosystems course is a detailed look at fossil sites in China. According to students, completing this course in its entirety may require paid access to take the tests at the end of each week.

Course has detailed lessons about dinosaur fossil sites located in China.

"A fascinating course that takes a detailed look at fossil sites in China..."

Learners may need to pay to access the end of week tests.

"I really enjoyed this course but cannot give five stars due to not being able to COMPLETE the course in its entirety. edX makes you pay if you want to take the tests at the end of each week..."

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 Dinosaur Ecosystems | 恐龙的生态系统 | Los Ecosistemas de los Dinosaurios with these activities:

Read Dinosaurs: A Concise Natural History

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Provides a comprehensive overview of dinosaur evolution, anatomy, and behavior to supplement your understanding of the course material

View Dinosaurs on Amazon

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Purchase a copy of the book or borrow it from a library
Read through the book, focusing on sections relevant to the course
Take notes and highlight important information
Refer back to the book as needed to reinforce your learning

Review the concept of geological time scales

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Understanding geological time scales is crucial for comprehending the history and evolution of dinosaurs and their ecosystems

Browse courses on Earth Sciences

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Go through your course materials or textbooks to review the concept of geological time scales
Explore online resources or videos that provide clear explanations of geological time scales
Practice converting between different geological time units, such as eras, periods, and epochs

Watch a documentary on dinosaur physiology

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Documentaries offer an engaging and informative way to expand your understanding of dinosaur biology and physiology

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Search for a documentary on dinosaur physiology or a related topic
Choose a reputable source and platform
Set aside time to watch the documentary
Take notes or highlight any key takeaways

Five other activities

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Organize a study group with your classmates

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Discussing the course material and working together on assignments with peers can enhance your understanding and retention

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Reach out to your classmates and express your interest in forming a study group
Find a convenient time and place to meet regularly
Set goals for each study session and create a study schedule
Engage in active learning by discussing the course material, practicing problems, and sharing insights

Create a timeline of dinosaur evolution

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Creating a timeline allows you to visualize the key stages of dinosaur evolution and see how different species relate to each other

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Gather information about dinosaur species and their estimated time periods
Choose a suitable format for your timeline, such as a spreadsheet, digital infographic, or physical poster
Plot the dinosaur species and their time periods on your timeline
Include any additional information or annotations as needed

Practice dinosaur bone identification

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Being able to recognize different dinosaur bones helps you visualize their skeletal structure and understand their locomotion and behavior

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Find a dinosaur bone identification guide or website
Study the different types of dinosaur bones and their characteristics
Practice identifying bones using the guide or website
Test your knowledge by identifying dinosaur bones in pictures or videos

Build a model of a dinosaur skeleton

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Building a dinosaur skeleton model helps you understand the anatomy of these animals and appreciate the complexity of their skeletal structures

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Choose a dinosaur species and gather information about its skeletal structure
Acquire materials such as modeling clay, wire, or cardboard
Construct the skeleton model based on your research and understanding
Label the different bones and joints for easy identification

Read The Dinosaur Artist: Obsession, Betrayal, and the Quest for Earth's Ultimate Trophy

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Describes the latest discoveries in the field of dinosaurs to enhance your knowledge of these magnificent creatures

View The Dinosaur Artist on Amazon

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Purchase a copy of the book from your preferred retailer or borrow it from your local library
Find a comfortable place where you can focus and enjoy reading
Set aside time to read at least a chapter per day
Take notes and highlight important information as you read
Complete the book and reflect on what you have learned

Career center

Learners who complete Dinosaur Ecosystems | 恐龙的生态系统 | Los Ecosistemas de los Dinosaurios will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Paleontologist

Paleontologists study the history of life on Earth by examining fossils. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which is essential for paleontologists who study dinosaurs. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which is a key skill for paleontologists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Paleontologist

Zoologist

Zoologists study the biology of animals, including their behavior, physiology, anatomy, and classification. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which can be helpful for zoologists who study reptiles and other animals. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which can be helpful for zoologists who study the evolution of animal communities.

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Wildlife Biologist

Wildlife biologists study the biology, behavior, and conservation of wild animals. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which can be helpful for wildlife biologists who study reptiles and other animals. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which can be helpful for wildlife biologists who study the management of wildlife populations.

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Museum curator

Museum curators are responsible for the care and display of museum collections. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which can be helpful for museum curators who work with dinosaur fossils. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which can be helpful for museum curators who develop exhibits on dinosaurs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Science Writer

Science writers communicate scientific information to the public. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which can be helpful for science writers who write about dinosaurs. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which can be helpful for science writers who write about the history of life on Earth.

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Science Teacher

Science teachers teach science to students. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which can be helpful for science teachers who teach about dinosaurs. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which can be helpful for science teachers who teach about the history of life on Earth.

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Environmental Consultant

Environmental consultants provide advice to businesses and governments on how to protect the environment. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which can be helpful for environmental consultants who work on projects related to paleontology or natural history. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which can be helpful for environmental consultants who assess the environmental impact of human activities.

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Park Ranger

Park rangers protect and manage natural resources. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which can be helpful for park rangers who work in parks with dinosaur fossils. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which can be helpful for park rangers who develop educational programs about dinosaurs.

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Interpreter

Interpreters provide information and guidance to visitors at museums, parks, and other public places. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which can be helpful for interpreters who work at museums or parks with dinosaur exhibits. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which can be helpful for interpreters who develop educational programs about dinosaurs.

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Veterinarian

Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which may be helpful for veterinarians who specialize in reptiles. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which may be helpful for veterinarians who develop treatment plans for animals that live in similar habitats to dinosaurs.

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Animal Trainer

Animal trainers work with animals to teach them new behaviors. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which may be helpful for animal trainers who work with reptiles. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which may be helpful for animal trainers who develop training programs for animals that live in similar habitats to dinosaurs.

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Forensic Scientist

Forensic scientists collect and analyze evidence to help solve crimes. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which may be helpful for forensic scientists who work on cases involving animal remains. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which may be helpful for forensic scientists who need to understand the context in which animal remains were found.

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Lawyer

Lawyers represent clients in legal matters. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which may be helpful for lawyers who specialize in environmental law or natural resources law. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which may be helpful for lawyers who need to understand the scientific evidence in cases involving dinosaurs or other extinct animals.

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Historian

Historians study the past. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which may be helpful for historians who specialize in the history of science or natural history. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which may be helpful for historians who need to understand the environmental context of historical events.

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Archaeologist

Archaeologists study the remains of past human cultures. This course provides a foundation in dinosaur biology, which may be helpful for archaeologists who work on sites that contain dinosaur fossils. The course also covers how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems using fossil and modern evidence, which may be helpful for archaeologists who need to understand the environmental context of human cultures.

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