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A Question of Time

How We Date Human Evolution

Tanya M Smith, Maxime Aubert, Mathieu Duval, Rainer Grün, and Rob Bruce

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is suitable for anyone who is interested in human evolution, archaeology or biological science. You can use the hashtag #FLdatingfossils to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Introduction to human evolution
How dating works (methods available)
Principles of radiocarbon, U-series and ESR dating
The specific challenges of dating valuable human fossils
Dating controversies
How dating changed the story of human evolution
Explore examples from around the world

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Reviews summary

Dating human evolution methods

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in dating human evolution. Students praise the clear explanations of complex dating methods like radiocarbon and U-series, finding the lecturers engaging and the use of fascinating examples highly valuable. While the content is generally well-presented, some mention that a prior science background is helpful, as certain aspects can be challenging.

Offers a good introduction to the topic

"Excellent overview for someone completely new to the subject of dating evolution."

"Provides a solid foundation in the principles of dating human evolution."

"This is a good starting point if you're interested in archaeology or human origins."

Lecturers are knowledgeable and engaging

"The professors were enthusiastic and clearly experts in their field."

"Enjoyed the way the material was presented; it kept me engaged."

"Instructors made the complex topic of dating fossils captivating."

Uses fascinating human evolution examples

"Loved the examples of how dating changed our view of human history."

"Discussing dating controversies with real fossil examples was great."

"The case studies from around the world made the science feel very real and relevant."

"Highlighting specific challenges with dating valuable human fossils was insightful."

Explains complex dating methods clearly

"Finally understood how radiocarbon dating works after this course!"

"The U-series section was explained surprisingly well and made sense."

"They made complex dating methods like ESR accessible and easy to grasp."

"Detailed breakdown of the different dating techniques was excellent."

May require some prior science background

"Some scientific terms and concepts were a bit technical for a complete beginner."

"Could be challenging if you don't have at least a basic science background."

"A bit demanding if you're just a hobbyist without any prior knowledge."

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Career center

Learners who complete A Question of Time: How We Date Human Evolution will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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A Question of Time

How We Date Human Evolution

Topics Covered

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Dating human evolution methods

Activities

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Reading list

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