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Marc Naguib, James Savage, and Lysanne Snijders

Do you want to understand how and why animals behave the way they do, and how we test hypotheses about behaviour scientifically? This biology and life sciences course provides an introduction to the complexities of wild animal behaviour, and how it is studied.

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Do you want to understand how and why animals behave the way they do, and how we test hypotheses about behaviour scientifically? This biology and life sciences course provides an introduction to the complexities of wild animal behaviour, and how it is studied.

Over six weeks, learners will explore the various behaviours animals adopt in order to meet the challenges of their daily lives. We begin with how animals learn and communicate with each other, then move on to discuss how they find food, avoid predators, choose their mates, and rear their offspring.

The MOOC Introduction to Animal Behaviour is aimed at anyone looking to broaden their understanding of animal behaviour beyond nature documentaries or a typical high school education. No previous knowledge is required, only curiosity and enthusiasm for the subject.

This course is taught by three top-researchers of Wageningen University & Research, a top-ranked university. Prof. Marc Naguib is professor and chair of the behavioural ecology group and shares his fascination for birds behaviour as they are incredibly mobile and have an amazing repertoire of behaviour. Dr. James Savage is currently a postdoctoral fellow at University College Cork, where he is studying the social behavior of birds across different habitats in a fragmented landscape. Dr. Lysanne Snijders shares her passion for social dynamics of animal populations.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Key concepts to understand animal behaviour
  • The fascinating range and complexity of behaviour in animals
  • How scientific hypotheses are developed and tested
  • How animals learn and communicate
  • Animals' reproductive behaviour
  • How animals function socially

Syllabus

Week 1: The science of animal behaviourAn introduction to key concepts for studying animal behaviour, including evolution, natural selection, anthropomorphism, and the scientific method.
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Week 2: Learning, cognition and developmentHow animals learn to adjust their behaviour to their environment, and how they use their mental abilities to solve practical problems.
Week 3: CommunicationAn introduction to the various means animals use to send signals to each other, and how these signals are influenced by the environment and social context.
Week 4: Finding food and avoiding predatorsHow animals find and exploit food resources, and how they avoid becoming food themselves.
Week 5: Mating systems and parental careThe complexities of creating the next generation, from finding and competing for a mate to rearing offspring.
Week 6: Living in groupsThe costs and benefits of living with others, how complex social groups arise, and why some animals forego reproduction to help others breed.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores animal behavior from an evolutionary and scientific perspective, which is standard in the field of zoology
Develops key concepts and skills for understanding animal behavior, making it suitable for beginners
Taught by researchers from Wageningen University, which is recognized for its work in animal behavior
Covers a comprehensive range of topics within animal behavior, providing a broad foundation

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Reviews summary

Animal behavior: discovery and study

Learners say this course is well-structured, engaging, and taught by expert instructors. It provides practical knowledge and encourages thought-provoking discussions. Students review that the course is well-paced, enjoyable, and offers a comprehensive introduction to animal behavior.
The course is well-organized and easy to follow, making it accessible to learners of all levels.
"After having followed the course, you will be constantly asking yourself random questions upon seeing other animals"
"I absolutely loved this course structure and it has also helped me to get a clear perspective about this subject."
"This course is well-organized, explained and engaging."
The course encourages learners to think critically about animal behavior and question their own understanding, fostering a deeper engagement with the subject matter.
"If you are interested in learning about specific animal behaviour, you might be better off studying the topic you have in mind."
"Once I chose this course, to find out it was based from a university in the Netherlands since that is the origin of both my parents."
"It gave me valuable insight into animal behaviour and also made me take a hard look at human behaviour."
The course not only covers theoretical concepts but also provides practical knowledge and assignments that help learners apply their understanding.
"I am loving the Introduction to animal behavior course as it gives me so much insight into the animal kingdom."
"There are some interesting discussions added, and assignments are fun and forums interesting."
"The assignments were also great as they allowed me to interact with other students on the discussion forum."
The course features a variety of engaging content, such as videos, animations, and interviews, which makes learning about animal behavior enjoyable.
"The videos are clearly presented and relevant, without an overload of information, and interviews with other researchers help enable a bigger picture understanding of the topic as a whole.."
"Videos and texts of the course help a lot to understand the topics, they are very clear and explanatory."
"Out of the three professors in the main lecture videos, Professor Marc Naguib was my favorite."
The course is taught by experienced researchers in the field of animal behavior, who provide valuable insights and share their expertise.
"This course was given by knowledgeable researchers in the field."
"My review about the Introduction to Animal Behaviour course is that this course was completely well done, with a lot of excellent content, videos and subtitles about all the lessons, the self-questions are a great way to know if we've learned with the course."
"The quality of the information presented and the ways it was presented were impressive."

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 Introduction to Animal Behaviour with these activities:
Review key concepts and theories in animal behavior before starting the course
Strengthen understanding of fundamental concepts to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on Animal Behavior
Show steps
  • Review notes or textbooks from previous courses or research.
  • Attend preparatory workshops or online courses.
  • Read articles or books on the subject to refresh knowledge.
Read Frans de Waal's "Mama's Last Hug: Animal Emotions and What They Tell Us About Ourselves"
Build a grounded understanding of animal behavior and emotions.
Show steps
  • Read the book.
  • Take notes on key concepts.
  • Summarize the main arguments.
  • Discuss the book with others.
Watch documentaries on animal behavior by renowned experts
Learn from experts and gain insights into real-world animal behaviors.
Browse courses on Animal Behavior
Show steps
  • Find documentaries on animal behavior.
  • Watch the documentaries and take notes.
  • Identify the key concepts and theories presented in the documentaries.
  • Discuss the documentaries with others.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Volunteer at a local animal shelter or wildlife rehabilitation center
Gain practical experience observing and interacting with animals.
Browse courses on Animal Behavior
Show steps
  • Identify a local animal shelter or wildlife rehabilitation center.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend orientation and training.
  • Contribute to the organization's mission.
Join a study group and discuss animal behavior theories
Gain diverse perspectives and deepen understanding through collaborative discussions.
Browse courses on Animal Behavior
Show steps
  • Join or form a peer group.
  • Choose a topic related to animal behavior.
  • Research different theories on the topic.
  • Discuss the theories in the group.
Create a mind map of animal behavior concepts
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts and their interrelationships.
Browse courses on Animal Behavior
Show steps
  • Identify the main concepts covered in the course.
  • Create a visual representation of the concepts.
  • Connect the concepts with lines and arrows to show their relationships.
  • Add notes or examples to explain the concepts.
Practice identifying different types of animal behaviors
Gain proficiency in identifying and interpreting different types of animal behaviors.
Browse courses on Animal Behavior
Show steps
  • Observe animals in various settings, such as zoos, parks, or nature documentaries.
  • Identify the different behaviors exhibited by the animals.
  • Research the different types of behaviors and their meanings.
  • Practice classifying the behaviors into different categories.
Attend industry events and conferences related to animal behavior
Connect with professionals and learn about the latest advancements in the field.
Browse courses on Animal Behavior
Show steps
  • Identify industry events and conferences related to animal behavior.
  • Register for and attend the events.
  • Network with professionals in the field.
  • Learn about the latest research and advancements in animal behavior.
Design a research project to investigate a specific animal behavior
Apply knowledge to design a research project and investigate real-world animal behaviors.
Browse courses on Animal Behavior
Show steps
  • Identify a specific animal behavior of interest.
  • Develop a research question and hypothesis.
  • Design a research method to test the hypothesis.
  • Collect and analyze data.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Animal Behaviour will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Zoologist
Zoologists study the biology of animals, including their behavior, anatomy, physiology, and evolution. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and zoos. This course may be useful for Zoologists because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals learn, communicate, find food, avoid predators, choose their mates, and rear their offspring. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Ethologist
Ethologists study the behavior of animals in their natural habitats. They observe and record animal behavior, and then analyze the data to learn about the animal's biology, ecology, and evolution. This course may be useful for Ethologists because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals learn, communicate, find food, avoid predators, choose their mates, and rear their offspring. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologists study the biology, behavior, and conservation of wild animals. They work to understand the factors that affect wildlife populations, and develop management plans to protect and conserve wildlife. This course may be useful for Wildlife Biologists because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals learn, communicate, find food, avoid predators, choose their mates, and rear their offspring. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Animal Behaviorist
Animal Behaviorists study the behavior of animals in their natural habitats. They observe and record animal behavior, and then analyze the data to learn about the animal's biology, ecology, and evolution. This course may be useful for Animal Behaviorists because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals learn, communicate, find food, avoid predators, choose their mates, and rear their offspring. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Animal Trainer
Animal Trainers work with animals to teach them specific behaviors. They use a variety of techniques, including positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, and shaping. This course may be useful for Animal Trainers because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals learn, communicate, and respond to different stimuli. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals. They also provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and spaying and neutering. This course may be useful for Veterinarians because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals respond to pain, fear, and stress. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist
Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialists care for sick, injured, and orphaned wild animals. They provide medical treatment, food, and shelter, and work to release the animals back into the wild when they are healthy. This course may be useful for Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialists because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals respond to different habitats and stressors. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologists work to protect endangered and threatened species. They develop and implement conservation plans, and conduct research to learn more about the biology and ecology of these species. This course may be useful for Conservation Biologists because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals respond to different habitats and stressors. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Animal Welfare Officer
Animal Welfare Officers investigate and enforce animal welfare laws. They also provide education and outreach to the public about animal welfare issues. This course may be useful for Animal Welfare Officers because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals respond to different environments and stressors. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Park Ranger
Park Rangers protect and manage national parks and other protected areas. They enforce park rules and regulations, and provide educational programs to the public. This course may be useful for Park Rangers because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals respond to different habitats and stressors. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Animal Scientist
Animal Scientists study the biology and behavior of animals. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, government agencies, and private industry. This course may be useful for Animal Scientists because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals learn, communicate, find food, avoid predators, choose their mates, and rear their offspring. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Animal Care Technician
Animal Care Technicians provide care for animals in a variety of settings, including animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and research facilities. They feed, groom, and clean the animals, and monitor their health. This course may be useful for Animal Care Technicians because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals respond to different environments and stressors. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Dog Trainer
Dog Trainers teach dogs specific behaviors. They use a variety of techniques, including positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, and shaping. This course may be useful for Dog Trainers because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals learn, communicate, and respond to different stimuli. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Pet Groomer
Pet Groomers bathe, brush, and trim the fur of pets. They also clean their ears and trim their nails. This course may be useful for Pet Groomers because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals respond to different stimuli. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.
Pet Sitter
Pet Sitters provide care for pets in the owner's absence. They feed, groom, and walk the pets, and play with them. This course may be useful for Pet Sitters because it provides an introduction to the key concepts of animal behavior, including how animals respond to different environments and stressors. The course also provides an overview of the scientific methods used to study animal behavior.

Reading list

We've selected 43 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 Introduction to Animal Behaviour.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal behavior, covering topics such as communication, learning, and social behavior. It well-written and accessible textbook that is commonly used in introductory animal behavior courses.
Provides a comprehensive overview of animal behavior from an evolutionary perspective. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in understanding the genetic, ecological, and social factors that shape animal behavior.
A highly readable, concise introduction to the study of animal behaviour, this book provides a broad overview of the key concepts and major debates in the field. It covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of behaviour to the latest experimental and theoretical research.
A comprehensive and up-to-date reference work on animal behavior, covering a wide range of topics from neurobiology to evolutionary ecology. It is an essential resource for researchers and students in the field.
Explores the ecological and evolutionary basis of animal behavior. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in understanding how animals interact with their environment to maximize their reproductive success.
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of animal behavior.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of behavioral biology, covering topics such as evolution, development, learning, and social behavior. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with little or no prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal cognition, covering topics such as learning, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. It well-written and accessible textbook that is commonly used in introductory animal cognition courses.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal behavior, with a focus on the evolutionary forces that have shaped animal behavior.
Provides a comprehensive overview of animal communication, covering topics such as evolution, development, and function. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with some prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal cognition. It covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of cognition to the latest experimental and theoretical research.
Explores the evolution of animal communication, focusing on the role of signals in social behavior.
Explores the relationship between cognition and ecology, focusing on the role of learning and intelligence in animal behavior.
A classic textbook on animal communication, covering topics such as the evolution of communication signals, the structure of communication networks, and the role of communication in social behavior. It well-written and accessible book that is commonly used in introductory animal communication courses.
Provides a comprehensive overview of animal social behavior, covering topics such as evolution, development, and function. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with some prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cooperation and conflict in animal societies, covering topics such as evolution, development, and function. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with some prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a broad overview of the field of social behavior in animals, covering topics such as communication, cooperation, and conflict.
Provides a comprehensive overview of animal behavior from an evolutionary perspective, covering topics such as natural selection, sexual selection, and social behavior. It well-written and accessible textbook that is commonly used in introductory animal behavior courses.
Provides a comprehensive overview of evolutionary theory, covering topics such as natural selection, adaptation, and genetic drift. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with little or no prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal personality. It covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of personality to the latest experimental and theoretical research. This book is recommended as additional reading.
Provides a comprehensive overview of animal behavior, covering topics such as evolution, development, and function. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with some prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal migration. It covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of migration to the latest experimental and theoretical research. This book is suitable as additional reading.
A concise and accessible introduction to animal behavior, covering topics such as communication, learning, and social behavior. It well-written book that is suitable for students with little or no background in biology.
Provides a broad overview of the field of ethology, focusing on the biological basis of animal behavior.
Provides a comprehensive overview of animal behavior, covering topics such as evolution, development, and function. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with some prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal behaviour. It covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of behaviour to the latest experimental and theoretical research. This book is recommended as additional reading.
Provides a comprehensive overview of behavioral neuroscience, the study of the brain and its relationship to behavior. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with some prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of comparative cognition, the study of cognition in non-human animals. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with some prior knowledge of the subject.
A classic work on the evolution of animal communication, covering topics such as the evolution of language, the role of communication in social behavior, and the evolution of cooperation. It well-written and accessible book that is suitable for students with little or no background in biology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal behaviour. It covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of behaviour to the latest experimental and theoretical research. This book is suitable as a reference tool.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history and philosophy of animal rights. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with little or no prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides an introduction to the field of behavioral endocrinology, focusing on the role of hormones in animal behavior.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal play, covering topics such as the evolution of play, the role of play in social behavior, and the ecological significance of play. It well-written and accessible book that is suitable for students with little or no background in biology.
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Provides a comprehensive overview of human-animal studies, the interdisciplinary field that examines the relationship between humans and animals. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is well-suited for students with little or no prior knowledge of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the ethological method, focusing on the collection and analysis of animal behavior data.
With its coverage of neurobiology, endocrinology, and genetics, this book provides a good biological background to animal behavior. It can be a useful reference for those interested in the biological underpinnings of behavior.

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