Primate Conservation from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Conservation & Conservation Concerns

In the first module, I will introduce myself and begin defining the Order Primates. Many people have a ‘love’ of ‘monkeys’ without really understanding how incredibly diverse our Order is! This module starts with a definition of primates and then shows where the current radiation of primates still live.

How We Define Threats

This module will begin by introducing the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature), the IUCN RedList, and how species are designated in threat categories. We will also discuss different types of threats to primates globally.

Exploring Primates throughout Various Regions

In this module, we will focus on the Top 25 Most Endangered Primates list. We will go region to region to learn about the primates and the threats they face toward the possibility of extinction.

Conservation Organizations

This module will address conservation organizations in multiple contexts. We will learn about 'in situ' and 'ex situ' conservation methodology. Finally, we will look at a number of conservation organizations and think about ways that the public can get involved.

Case Study: Vietnam

Vietnam is home to an incredible diversity of primates. There are currently 25 species and subspecies living in this tropical country (Covert et al., 2017). In this module, we will discuss the diversity of primates, threats to conservation, and the groups that are helping to conserve these animals (and landscapes!).

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores conservation concerns affecting primates, which is highly relevant to environmental science

Taught by Jonathan O'Brien, who is recognized for their work in primate conservation

Develops knowledge of primate conservation status and threats, which are core skills for environmental science

Examines primate conservation through the lens of the IUCN RedList, which is highly relevant to conservation science

Provides a case study of Vietnam's primate diversity and conservation efforts, which adds color to the broader topic of primate conservation

Requires students to have a basic understanding of primate biology and conservation principles, which may be a barrier for some learners

Reviews summary

Primate conservation: a top-rated course

Learners say they largely enjoy this informative primate conservation course. They applaud the informative sessions and the instructor's clarity. Students especially value the emphasis on species conservation and the chance to explore their interests in this field.

Instructor is knowledgeable and engaging.

"Fantastic course! I learned a lot and the course allowed me to explore my interests within primate conservation"

"This is a great course for anyone interested in primates."

"The instructor is easy to follow and the topics are interesting."

Course content is informative and interesting.

"Great informative sessions, helps to identify primates in the regional territory."

"Course is valuable in promoting the concept of species conservation and assessing the state of conservation."

"This is a great course for anyone interested in primates."

Assignments are unclear and lack feedback.

"I wanted to absolutely adore this, but the test questions are vague and would benefit from directions like, “select all that apply”."

"The last peer review assignment is just awful."

"It takes weeks to get a grade back and when you do there is zero feedback even if you followed all the directions to a “t” and went above and beyond."

Certificate is expensive and required to submit assignments.

"you are not allowed to submit your assignments without paying for a certificate which is very bad and it means you cannot finish this course"

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 Primate Conservation with these activities:

Review Primate Anatomy

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Reviewing primate anatomy can help solidify your understanding and create a strong foundation before the course.

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Use online resources like textbooks or research papers to brush up on the skeletal system, muscular system, and integumentary system of primates.
Focus on key anatomical features that distinguish primates from other mammals.
Create flashcards or diagrams to help memorize important anatomical structures.

Conservation Terms

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Reinforce your understanding of fundamental conservation terminology by practicing the definitions of key terms.

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Read the chapter on Conservation Terms in the Primates in Peril book.
Complete the practice exercises at the end of the chapter.
Create a glossary of the key terms.

IUCN Red List Training

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Enhance your understanding of the IUCN Red List criteria and methodology by completing this comprehensive tutorial.

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Enroll in the online IUCN Red List training module.
Complete the interactive exercises and assessments.
Apply your knowledge to assess the conservation status of a primate species.

Three other activities

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Show all six activities

Primate Conservation Case Study Discussion

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Engage with fellow learners to analyze a real-world primate conservation case study and discuss its implications.

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Read the provided case study materials.
Join a peer discussion group.
Share your perspectives on the case study.
Collaborate to identify key lessons learned.

Primate Conservation Action Plan

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Develop a comprehensive action plan to address the threats facing a specific primate species or population.

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Research the target primate species and its conservation status.
Identify the major threats and challenges.
Propose specific strategies and interventions to mitigate the threats.
Develop a monitoring and evaluation framework.
Share your plan with relevant stakeholders.

Primate Conservation Volunteer

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Gain hands-on experience and contribute to primate conservation efforts by volunteering with a reputable organization.

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Research and identify potential volunteer opportunities.
Contact the organizations and inquire about their volunteer programs.
Apply and complete the necessary training.
Participate in volunteer activities according to the organization's schedule.

Career center

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

Primatologist

Primatologists study the behavior, ecology, and evolution of primates. They typically work in universities, museums, or zoos. This course would be beneficial to Primatologists because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Primatologist

Animal Caretaker

Animal Caretakers provide care for animals in zoos, aquariums, or research facilities. They typically work under the supervision of a veterinarian or animal trainer. This course would be beneficial to Animal Caretakers because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Animal Trainer

Animal Trainers teach animals to perform specific behaviors. They typically work in zoos, aquariums, or circuses. This course would be beneficial to Animal Trainers because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Wildlife Biologist

Wildlife Biologists study the behavior, ecology, and conservation of wild animals. They typically work in government agencies or private organizations, such as zoos or conservation charities. This course would be beneficial to Wildlife Biologists because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Ecologist

Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. They typically work in universities, government agencies, or private organizations, such as environmental consultancies. This course would be beneficial to Ecologists because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Veterinarian

Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals. They typically work in private practice or for government agencies. This course would be beneficial to Veterinarians because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Zoologist

Zoologists study the behavior, ecology, and evolution of animals. They typically work in universities, museums, or zoos. This course would be beneficial to Zoologists because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Animal Welfare Officer

Animal Welfare Officers investigate and enforce laws and regulations to protect the welfare of animals. They typically work for government agencies or private organizations, such as animal shelters. This course would be beneficial to Animal Welfare Officers because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Conservation Scientist

Conservation Scientists are responsible for studying the natural world and developing plans to protect it. They typically work in government agencies or private organizations, such as zoos or conservation charities. This course would be beneficial to Conservation Scientists because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Wildlife Photographer

Wildlife Photographers capture images of animals in their natural habitats. They typically work for magazines, newspapers, or websites. This course would be beneficial to Wildlife Photographers because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Conservation Policy Analyst

Conservation Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies to protect the natural world. They typically work in government agencies or private organizations, such as environmental think tanks. This course would be beneficial to Conservation Policy Analysts because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist

Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialists care for sick, injured, or orphaned wild animals. They typically work for wildlife rehabilitation centers or zoos. This course would be beneficial to Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialists because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Conservation Educator

Conservation Educators develop and deliver educational programs to raise awareness of environmental issues. They typically work in schools, museums, or zoos. This course would be beneficial to Conservation Educators because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the natural world and develop plans to protect it. They typically work in government agencies or private organizations, such as environmental consultancies. This course would be beneficial to Environmental Scientists because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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Conservation Writer

Conservation Writers write articles, books, and other materials to raise awareness of environmental issues. They typically work for magazines, newspapers, or websites. This course would be beneficial to Conservation Writers because it would provide them with a broad overview of the threats facing primates, as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them.

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