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James Connelly,
Tais Wittchen Dahl,
Henning Haack,
Vivi Vajda,
Michael Houmark-Nielsen,
Gitte Petersen,
Emily Catherine Pope,
Svend Stouge,
Bent Erik Kramer Lindow,
Arne Thorshøj Nielsen,
Ole Seberg,
Danny Eibye Jacobsen,
Jon Fjeldså,
Martin Vinther Sørensen,
Gilles Guy Roger Cuny,
Jan Audun Rasmussen,
and
Thomas Gilbert
The Origins course tracks the origin of all things – from the Big Bang to the origin of the Solar System and the Earth. The course follows the evolution of life on our planet through deep geological time to present life forms.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/pj5ojc/origins
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What's inside
Syllabus
Origin of the Elements, the Solar System and the Planets
In the first module of Origins Jim Connelly and Henning Haack go through the evolution that resulted in the Solar System with the planets that we know today. Jim will tell you about how the elements of the periodic table were formed. Without these elements there would be no Solar System, no planets and no life at all. We have added a couple of more videos that we hope you will also find interesting. One gives you an introduction to Geological time. Videos 1.7-1.9 deals with some of our most interesting meteorites from the collections at the Natural History Museum of Denmark. Much of the evidence for the theories presented in Module 1 has been obtained from meteorites.
Read more
Syllabus
Origin of the Elements, the Solar System and the Planets
In the first module of Origins Jim Connelly and Henning Haack go through the evolution that resulted in the Solar System with the planets that we know today. Jim will tell you about how the elements of the periodic table were formed. Without these elements there would be no Solar System, no planets and no life at all. We have added a couple of more videos that we hope you will also find interesting. One gives you an introduction to Geological time. Videos 1.7-1.9 deals with some of our most interesting meteorites from the collections at the Natural History Museum of Denmark. Much of the evidence for the theories presented in Module 1 has been obtained from meteorites.
Read more
Traffic lights
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Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores the origin of the elements, the Solar System, and the planets, which is standard in geology and astronomy curricula
Taught by PhDs and professors who are active in research and development in their respective fields
Examines the origin of life and the evolution of microbial life, which is a core topic in biology
Develops an understanding of the transition from microbial to macroscopic life, which is a key concept in evolutionary biology
Provides a comprehensive overview of the origin and evolution of marine Cambrian and Palaeozoic Evolutionary Faunas
Investigates the impact of oxygenation on the evolution of life, which is a topic of growing interest in biology
Covers the origins and early development of plants, which is a fundamental topic in botany
Examines the evolution of insects and their role in terrestrial ecosystems, which is a core topic in entomology
Explores the colonization of the continents and the origin of the dinosaurs and birds, which is a popular topic in paleontology
Investigates the causes and consequences of mass extinction events, which is a critical topic in evolutionary biology
Provides an overview of recent climate change and the molecular clock, which are topics of current interest in biology
Traces the evolution of primates, including human origins and evolution, which is a topic of fascination for many learners
Explores modern diversity, which is a vast and complex topic that is essential for understanding the natural world
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Reviews summary
Origins of universe, earth, and life
According to learners, this course provides a largely positive and comprehensive journey through the origins of everything from the Big Bang and Solar System formation to the evolution of life on Earth and human origins. Students praise the expert instructors from the University of Copenhagen for their knowledgeable and engaging lectures. While some find the course a perfect introduction to a vast topic, others note that due to its breadth, it serves more as an overview rather than a deep dive, which may require supplemental study depending on your background.
Assessments reinforce key concepts.
"The quizzes helped consolidate the information covered in the lectures."
"Assignments were fair and tested understanding of the core ideas."
"I found the quizzes useful for checking my comprehension after each module."
Covers many topics, but not deeply.
"Given the immense scope, the course necessarily sacrifices depth in some areas for breadth."
"While the overview is great, those seeking very detailed information on specific topics might find it too general."
"It's a fantastic survey course, but be prepared to explore specific modules further on your own if you want more detail."
Lectures and visuals are well-made.
"The lectures were engaging, often featuring field trips or museum visits which added great value."
"I appreciated the quality of the videos and supplementary materials provided."
"The use of visuals, particularly the meteorite and fossil examples, made the concepts much clearer."
Excellent overview for beginners.
"This course is a wonderful starting point for anyone interested in origins but lacking a science background."
"It provides a solid foundation and context for understanding complex scientific topics."
"I found it very accessible even though I am not a scientist; it made these huge topics understandable."
Lectures delivered by knowledgeable experts.
"The instructors are clearly experts in their fields and passionate about the subject matter."
"Listening to these professors share their knowledge was a real privilege; they explain complex ideas well."
"Each lecturer brings a unique perspective and deep understanding to their module."
Covers vast timeline from cosmos to life.
"The scope of this course is incredibly broad, covering everything from the formation of elements in the stars to human evolution."
"A truly comprehensive look at the origins of the universe, our solar system, Earth and the diversity of life."
"I enjoyed the journey through deep geological time and understanding how different events shaped the planet and life."
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 Origins - Formation of the Universe, Solar System, Earth and Life with these
activities:
Review the basic principles of geology
Show steps
Reviewing the basic principles of geology can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Geology
Show steps
-
Read the relevant chapters in a geology textbook.
-
Take practice quizzes on geology concepts.
-
Review your notes from previous geology courses.
Practice identifying different rock types
Show steps
Practicing identifying different rock types will help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Rocks
Show steps
-
Collect different types of rocks.
-
Use a rock identification key to identify the rocks.
-
Take practice quizzes on rock identification.
Watch videos on the history of life on Earth
Show steps
Watching videos on the history of life on Earth can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Evolution
Show steps
-
Find videos on the history of life on Earth.
-
Watch the videos.
-
Take notes on the videos.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Create a timeline of the major events in the history of life on Earth
Show steps
Creating a timeline of the major events in the history of life on Earth can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Evolution
Show steps
-
Research the major events in the history of life on Earth.
-
Create a timeline of the events.
-
Write a brief description of each event.
Read The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin
Show steps
Reading The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Show steps
-
Read the book.
-
Take notes on the book.
-
Discuss the book with other students.
Build a model of a cell
Show steps
Building a model of a cell can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Cells
Show steps
-
Gather materials.
-
Build the model.
-
Write a report on your model.
Compile a list of resources on the history of life on Earth
Show steps
Compiling a list of resources on the history of life on Earth can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Evolution
Show steps
-
Search for resources on the history of life on Earth.
-
Compile a list of the resources.
-
Write a brief description of each resource.
Volunteer at a natural history museum
Show steps
Volunteering at a natural history museum can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Evolution
Show steps
-
Find a natural history museum to volunteer at.
-
Contact the museum and ask about volunteer opportunities.
-
Volunteer at the museum.
Participate in a study group for the course
Show steps
Participating in a study group for the course can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Show steps
-
Find a study group to join.
-
Attend study group meetings.
-
Participate in discussions.
Review the basic principles of geology
Show steps
Reviewing the basic principles of geology can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Geology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the relevant chapters in a geology textbook.
- Take practice quizzes on geology concepts.
- Review your notes from previous geology courses.
Practice identifying different rock types
Show steps
Practicing identifying different rock types will help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Rocks
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Collect different types of rocks.
- Use a rock identification key to identify the rocks.
- Take practice quizzes on rock identification.
Watch videos on the history of life on Earth
Show steps
Watching videos on the history of life on Earth can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Evolution
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find videos on the history of life on Earth.
- Watch the videos.
- Take notes on the videos.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Create a timeline of the major events in the history of life on Earth
Show steps
Creating a timeline of the major events in the history of life on Earth can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Evolution
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the major events in the history of life on Earth.
- Create a timeline of the events.
- Write a brief description of each event.
Read The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin
Show steps
Reading The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book.
- Take notes on the book.
- Discuss the book with other students.
Build a model of a cell
Show steps
Building a model of a cell can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Cells
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather materials.
- Build the model.
- Write a report on your model.
Compile a list of resources on the history of life on Earth
Show steps
Compiling a list of resources on the history of life on Earth can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Evolution
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for resources on the history of life on Earth.
- Compile a list of the resources.
- Write a brief description of each resource.
Volunteer at a natural history museum
Show steps
Volunteering at a natural history museum can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Browse courses on
Evolution
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a natural history museum to volunteer at.
- Contact the museum and ask about volunteer opportunities.
- Volunteer at the museum.
Participate in a study group for the course
Show steps
Participating in a study group for the course can help you understand the content of the course more thoroughly.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group to join.
- Attend study group meetings.
- Participate in discussions.
Career center
Learners who complete Origins - Formation of the Universe, Solar System, Earth and Life will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Paleontologist
Paleontologist
As a Paleontologist, you will explore the evolution of organisms and the history of life on Earth. The Origins course can help prepare you for this career by offering you a comprehensive overview of the history of life on earth, from early microbial life to the evolution of humans. The course will provide you with an understanding of how organisms have changed over time and the factors that have influenced their evolution.
Cosmologist
Cosmologist
As a Cosmologist, you will study the origin and evolution of the universe. The Origins course at the University of Copenhagen can help you prepare for this career by giving you a comprehensive overview of the formation and evolution of the universe. The course will provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the cosmos and the laws of physics that govern it.
Geochemist
Geochemist
As a Geochemist, you will conduct research into the chemical composition of the earth's rocks, minerals, and soils. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen can help you prepare for this role by providing you with a deep understanding of the earth's formation and the processes that have shaped its composition. The course will also provide you with an understanding of the chemical processes that occur in the earth's interior and on its surface.
Micropaleontologist
Micropaleontologist
As a Micropaleontologist, you will investigate the fossil record of microscopic organisms. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen can help prepare you for this career by providing you with a comprehensive overview of the history of life on our planet and the processes that have shaped it. The course will also provide you with an in-depth understanding of the fossil record and the techniques used to study it.
Planetary Geologist
Planetary Geologist
As a Planetary Geologist, you will investigate the composition and structure of planets and moons. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen can help you prepare for this role by giving you a broad understanding of the formation and evolution of the solar system. The course will provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the processes that have shaped the planets and moons in our solar system and the techniques used to study them.
Geophysicist
Geophysicist
As a Geophysicist, you will investigate the physical properties of the earth. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen can help you prepare for this role by giving you a deep understanding of the earth's formation and the processes that have shaped its structure and composition. The course will also provide you with an understanding of the physical processes that occur in the earth's interior and on its surface.
Exobiologist
Exobiologist
As an Exobiologist, you will search for life on other planets. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the formation and evolution of the universe, the solar system, and the earth. This knowledge will be essential for understanding the potential for life to exist on other planets and the techniques that can be used to search for it.
Ecologist
Ecologist
As an Ecologist, you will study the interactions between organisms and their environment. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the history of life on earth and the processes that have shaped it. This knowledge will be essential for understanding the complex interactions between organisms and their environment and the challenges facing the planet today.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
As an Anthropologist, you will study human culture and behavior. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the evolution of humans and the development of human culture. This knowledge will be essential for understanding the diversity of human cultures and the challenges facing humanity today.
Geologist
Geologist
As a Geologist, you will investigate natural resources, the composition of the earth, and the effects of natural disasters. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen can help you prepare for this role by giving you a deep understanding of the earth's formation, the elements that comprise it, and the evolution of life on our planet.
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicist
As an Astrophysicist, you will apply the methods of physics to the study of the universe. The Origins course at the University of Copenhagen can help you prepare for this role by giving you a comprehensive overview of the formation and evolution of the universe. The course will provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the cosmos and the laws of physics that govern it.
Science Writer
Science Writer
As a Science Writer, you will communicate complex scientific concepts to the public. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the history of life on earth and the processes that have shaped it. This knowledge will be essential for accurately and engagingly communicating the latest scientific discoveries to the public.
Science Educator
Science Educator
As a Science Educator, you will teach science to students of all ages. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the history of life on earth and the processes that have shaped it. This knowledge will be essential for effectively teaching science to students and inspiring them to pursue careers in science.
Museum curator
Museum curator
As a Museum Curator, you will oversee the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts and specimens. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the history of life on earth and the processes that have shaped it. This knowledge will be essential for understanding the significance of the artifacts and specimens in your collection and for effectively communicating their importance to the public.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
As a Research Scientist, you will conduct research in a variety of scientific fields. The Origins course from the University of Copenhagen will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the history of life on earth and the processes that have shaped it. This knowledge will be essential for understanding the broader context of your research and for making connections between different fields of science.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pj5ojc/origins
Reading list
We've selected 30 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
Origins - Formation of the Universe, Solar System, Earth and Life.
The classic work on the theory of evolution by natural selection. Essential reading for anyone interested in the history and evolution of life on Earth.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Big Bang theory, the origin of the universe, and the evolution of the cosmos. It offers a fascinating journey into the fundamental principles of cosmology, making it an ideal companion to the course's exploration of the origin of the universe.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the evidence for evolution, from the fossil record to DNA. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of life on Earth, from the formation of the early atmosphere to the evolution of humans.
Comprehensive overview of the history of the universe, from the Big Bang to the present day. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is packed with fascinating information.
Save
Explores the potential future of life on Earth, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change, biodiversity loss, and other global issues. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the role of humans in shaping the future of our planet and its inhabitants.
Save
Pulitzer Prize-winning exploration of the history of genetics. Mukherjee traces the development of genetics from its early beginnings to the present day.
Save
Provides a clear and concise introduction to the theory of evolution, addressing common misconceptions and presenting a compelling case for its validity. It would be an excellent choice for those seeking a concise and accessible overview of this fundamental scientific concept.
Save
Tells the story of human evolution from a unique perspective: the inside out. Shubin traces the evolution of the human body from its origins in the ocean to its present form. Along the way, he provides a fascinating glimpse into the workings of the human body and the forces that have shaped it.
Save
Explores the emerging field of evolutionary developmental biology, which investigates the genetic and developmental mechanisms underlying the evolution of new traits. It would provide a fascinating complement to the course's examination of the evolution of life.
A comprehensive and entertaining overview of the history of the universe and the evolution of life on Earth. Provides a good entry point for those new to the subject and can help to provide background knowledge for the course.
Explores the history of mass extinctions and the role that humans are playing in the current extinction crisis. Kolbert provides a chilling account of the threats facing the planet and its inhabitants, and she offers a powerful call to action.
Fascinating exploration of the history of dinosaurs. Brusatte provides a detailed account of the rise and fall of these magnificent creatures, and he explores the latest scientific discoveries about their biology and behavior.
Tells the story of human history from a unique perspective: the big picture. Harari traces the evolution of humans from their origins in Africa to the present day, and he explores the major forces that have shaped human society.
Save
A popular science book that makes a strong case for the theory of evolution and the importance of science. An accessible and provocative read that may encourage learners to explore the topic in greater depth.
Save
Comprehensive illustrated history of life on Earth. Benton covers the entire span of Earth's history, from the first appearance of life to the present day.
Classic of science writing. Sagan provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the universe, from the Big Bang to the present day. Along the way, he explores the nature of life, consciousness, and our place in the cosmos.
Save
A journey through the history of vertebrate evolution, exploring the common ancestry of humans and other animals. Provides a good overview of the topic and can help to provide background knowledge for the course.
This classic book and accompanying television series offer a captivating exploration of the universe, covering topics ranging from the origin of the cosmos to the search for extraterrestrial life. It would provide an inspiring and informative supplement to the course's exploration of the origins and evolution of the universe.
A comprehensive and engaging overview of the human body. Provides a good entry point for those new to the subject and can help to provide background knowledge for the course.
Seminal work in the history of science. Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection is one of the most important and influential ideas ever developed.
Explores the role of sexual selection and competition in human evolution. Provides valuable insights into the evolution of human behavior and social structures.
A sweeping history of humankind, from its origins to the present day. Provides a good overview of the topic and can help to provide background knowledge for the course.
Tells the story of the dinosaurs from their origins to their extinction. Brusatte provides a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the latest research on dinosaurs, and he offers a new perspective on their place in the history of life.
Explores the nature of space, time, and reality. Greene provides a fascinating and accessible account of the latest developments in physics, and he offers a new perspective on the fundamental questions of our existence.
Save
Humorous and informative guide to the human body. Bryson takes the reader on a tour of the human body, from the head to the toes, and he explains how the different parts of the body work together to keep us alive.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Earth's climate, from its origins to its future. Ruddiman explains the factors that have shaped the Earth's climate over time, and he explores the potential impacts of climate change.
Explores the cultural history of the Earth. Winchester traces the ways in which humans have interacted with the planet, from the earliest civilizations to the present day.
Save
Comprehensive overview of the history of life on Earth. Attenborough provides a fascinating and accessible account of the latest research on the evolution of life, and he offers a new perspective on the diversity of life on the planet.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of life on Earth, from its origins to its future. Ward provides a fascinating and accessible account of the latest research on the evolution of life, and he offers a new perspective on the diversity of life on the planet.
Save
Explores the future of life on Earth. Wilson provides a thought-provoking and provocative account of the challenges facing the planet and its inhabitants, and he offers a vision for a sustainable future.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pj5ojc/origins
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Rating
4.7
Effort
23 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Copenhagen
Instructors
James Connelly
Tais Wittchen Dahl
Henning Haack
Vivi Vajda
Michael Houmark-Nielsen
Gitte Petersen
Emily Catherine Pope
Svend Stouge
Bent Erik Kramer Lindow
Arne Thorshøj Nielsen
Ole Seberg
Danny Eibye Jacobsen
Jon Fjeldså
Martin Vinther Sørensen
Gilles Guy Roger Cuny
Jan Audun Rasmussen
Thomas Gilbert
Language
English
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