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Mechanics & Origins of Bipedalism
Jeremy DeSilva
Jeremy DeSilva
This course will take you through the kinematics of human locomotion including modeling upright walking as a controlled fall, how muscles and bones work together to move individuals using a series of joints and levers, and how the abductor mechanism works to solve the “seesaw problem” of side-to-side wobbling. You will also understand how paleoanthropologists look for musculoskeletal adaptations in fossils to reconstruct how something in the past moved. You’ll explore how musculoskeletal adaptations correlate with bipedalism, as well as what significance these clues hold for telling us about how hominins moved. Additionally, you will learn the kinematics of other habitual striding bipeds found in the animal kingdom.
Read more
This course will take you through the kinematics of human locomotion including modeling upright walking as a controlled fall, how muscles and bones work together to move individuals using a series of joints and levers, and how the abductor mechanism works to solve the “seesaw problem” of side-to-side wobbling. You will also understand how paleoanthropologists look for musculoskeletal adaptations in fossils to reconstruct how something in the past moved. You’ll explore how musculoskeletal adaptations correlate with bipedalism, as well as what significance these clues hold for telling us about how hominins moved. Additionally, you will learn the kinematics of other habitual striding bipeds found in the animal kingdom.
Read more
This course will take you through the kinematics of human locomotion including modeling upright walking as a controlled fall, how muscles and bones work together to move individuals using a series of joints and levers, and how the abductor mechanism works to solve the “seesaw problem” of side-to-side wobbling. You will also understand how paleoanthropologists look for musculoskeletal adaptations in fossils to reconstruct how something in the past moved. You’ll explore how musculoskeletal adaptations correlate with bipedalism, as well as what significance these clues hold for telling us about how hominins moved. Additionally, you will learn the kinematics of other habitual striding bipeds found in the animal kingdom.
Every module of this course has been created with the intention of a “hands-on” learner experience, where you can play around with and learn from 3D renditions of different human and animal fossils. Through these exercises, you will be able to observe and describe animal behavior in order to explain the function of their locomotion and how that relates to our own.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/qgrner/mechanics
What's inside
Syllabus
Module 1: An Overview of Bipedalism and Musculoskeletal Adaptations
This module provides an introduction to the kinematics of human locomotion and the musculoskeletal adaptations for bipedalism.
Read more
Syllabus
Module 1: An Overview of Bipedalism and Musculoskeletal Adaptations
This module provides an introduction to the kinematics of human locomotion and the musculoskeletal adaptations for bipedalism.
Read more
Module 2: More About the Mechanics of Bipedalism
This module explores how other bipedal walkers move uniquely.
Module 3: The Origins of Bipedalism and its Evolution
This module provides an overview of human evolution and explores the origin of bipedalism.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops strong foundational skills needed for understanding advanced topics surrounding human locomotion
Emphasizes hands-on learning through interactive materials like 3D models, providing students with a deeper understanding of human locomotion
Provides learners a unique and comprehensive understanding of human and animal locomotion, focusing on topics such as kinematics, musculoskeletal adaptations, and bipedalism
Course materials were designed by instructors recognized for their expertise in the field of human locomotion research
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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 Mechanics & Origins of Bipedalism with these
activities:
Volunteer at a museum or science center that exhibits fossils
Show steps
This activity will provide hands-on experience with fossils and help you learn about the role of museums in public education
Browse courses on
Fossils
Show steps
-
Contact a museum or science center that exhibits fossils and inquire about volunteer opportunities
-
Assist visitors with questions about fossils and human evolution
-
Participate in educational programs and workshops
Learn about the evolutionary history of bipedalism
Show steps
This activity will introduce you to the field of paleoanthropology, and the scientific techniques used to reconstruct the evolution of bipedalism
Browse courses on
Human Evolution
Show steps
-
Find online courses or documentaries that explain the evolutionary history of bipedalism
-
Read scientific articles or books about the fossil record and the evidence for bipedalism
-
Attend a lecture or talk given by a paleoanthropologist
Review the basics of kinematics
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of kinematics before starting the course to enhance your comprehension of the concepts in the course syllabus.
Browse courses on
Kinematics
Show steps
-
Revisit your notes or textbook on kinematics
-
Solve practice problems related to kinematics
-
Watch online videos or tutorials on kinematics concepts
14 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 17 activities
Review biomechanics
Show steps
This activity will help you recall the basics of the musculoskeletal system, kinematics, and other relevant knowledge to better understand human locomotion
Browse courses on
Biomechanics
Show steps
-
Review notes and readings from previous biomechanics courses or textbooks
-
Create flashcards for key terms and concepts in biomechanics and musculoskeletal adaptations
-
Watch online videos or animations that explain the basics of biomechanics
Review basic physics concepts
Show steps
Reviewing basic physics concepts, such as kinematics and mechanics, will help you understand the forces that act on the human body during bipedalism.
Browse courses on
Physics
Show steps
-
Review the concepts of motion, force, and energy.
-
Solve simple physics problems related to bipedalism.
Analyze bipedal locomotion in different animals
Show steps
This activity will allow you to observe and practice identifying the different ways that bipedal animals move, and compare and contrast them to human locomotion
Browse courses on
Bipedalism
Show steps
-
Find videos or documentaries that showcase the locomotion of different bipedal animals
-
Observe and describe the animal's gait, posture, and joint movements
-
Identify the adaptations that allow the animal to walk bipedally
-
Compare and contrast the locomotion of different animals to human locomotion
Discuss the evolution of bipedalism with peers
Show steps
Discussing the evolution of bipedalism with peers will help you solidify your understanding of the topic and gain different perspectives.
Browse courses on
Human Evolution
Show steps
-
Find a study group or online forum where you can connect with other students.
-
Engage in discussions about the different theories and evidence related to the evolution of bipedalism.
Create a study guide
Show steps
This activity will help you organize and consolidate your understanding of the key concepts and materials covered in the course
Show steps
-
Review your notes, readings, and assignments from the course
-
Identify the main themes and concepts covered in each module
-
Summarize the key points and supporting evidence for each concept
-
Create practice questions or exercises to test your understanding
Explore 3D renditions of human and animal fossils
Show steps
Engage with interactive 3D models to visualize and understand the musculoskeletal adaptations of humans and animals covered in this course, deepening your comprehension.
Show steps
-
Access the online platform providing 3D fossil renditions
-
Select a specific human or animal fossil to examine
-
Rotate and zoom in on the fossil to observe its structures
-
Read the accompanying information provided by the platform
-
Take notes on your observations and any questions that arise
Practice identifying anatomical structures
Show steps
Practice identifying anatomical structures on human skeletal and muscular models, and on yourself, will help you visualize and understand how different body parts work together to enable bipedalism.
Browse courses on
Human Anatomy
Show steps
-
Obtain images of human skeletons and muscular systems.
-
Label the major bones and muscles on the images.
-
Practice identifying anatomical structures on yourself and others.
Explore 3D models of human and animal fossils
Show steps
Exploring 3D models of human and animal fossils will help you visualize the different adaptations that have evolved in bipedal species.
Browse courses on
Human Evolution
Show steps
-
Find online repositories for 3D models of human and animal fossils.
-
Download and explore the models, paying attention to the skeletal and muscular structures.
-
Compare and contrast the different models to identify adaptations for bipedalism.
Attend a conference or workshop on human locomotion
Show steps
This activity will expose you to cutting-edge research on human locomotion and provide opportunities to network with experts in the field
Show steps
-
Research upcoming conferences or workshops on human locomotion
-
Register for the event and attend the presentations and workshops
-
Network with researchers and professionals in the field
Analyze the kinematics of different bipedal walkers
Show steps
Practice identifying and describing the unique movements of various bipedal walkers, strengthening your understanding of the diversity of bipedalism.
Show steps
-
Gather videos or images of different bipedal animals, such as humans, penguins, and ostriches
-
Observe and analyze their walking patterns, paying attention to joint movements, muscle activations, and overall coordination
-
Identify similarities and differences in their kinematics
-
Summarize your findings in a written report or presentation
3D Model Analysis
Show steps
This activity will help you understand the musculoskeletal adaptations of different animals and humans by creating and analyzing 3D models
Browse courses on
3D Modeling
Show steps
-
Use a 3D modeling software to create a model of a human or animal skeleton
-
Animate the model to simulate different types of locomotion
-
Analyze the muscle and joint movements in the model
-
Write a report summarizing your findings and insights
Design a model of a bipedal robot
Show steps
Designing a model of a bipedal robot will help you apply your understanding of the mechanics of bipedalism.
Browse courses on
Biomechanics
Show steps
-
Research different types of bipedal robots and their designs.
-
Develop a conceptual design for your own bipedal robot.
-
Build a physical or virtual model of your robot.
-
Test and evaluate your robot's performance.
Develop a presentation on the evolution of bipedalism
Show steps
Synthesize your knowledge of the origins and evolution of bipedalism by creating a comprehensive presentation, solidifying your understanding and improving your communication skills.
Show steps
-
Research the key stages and milestones in the evolution of bipedalism
-
Gather supporting evidence from scientific literature, fossils, and other relevant sources
-
Organize your findings into a logical and visually appealing presentation
-
Practice your presentation skills and seek feedback from peers or instructors
-
Present your findings to an audience
Contribute to open-source projects related to bipedalism
Show steps
Contributing to open-source projects related to bipedalism will help you deepen your understanding of the field and apply your skills.
Browse courses on
Biomechanics
Show steps
-
Find open-source projects related to bipedalism.
-
Identify ways to contribute to these projects.
-
Make code contributions, write documentation, or report bugs.
Volunteer at a museum or science center that exhibits fossils
Show steps
This activity will provide hands-on experience with fossils and help you learn about the role of museums in public education
Browse courses on
Fossils
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Contact a museum or science center that exhibits fossils and inquire about volunteer opportunities
- Assist visitors with questions about fossils and human evolution
- Participate in educational programs and workshops
Learn about the evolutionary history of bipedalism
Show steps
This activity will introduce you to the field of paleoanthropology, and the scientific techniques used to reconstruct the evolution of bipedalism
Browse courses on
Human Evolution
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online courses or documentaries that explain the evolutionary history of bipedalism
- Read scientific articles or books about the fossil record and the evidence for bipedalism
- Attend a lecture or talk given by a paleoanthropologist
Review the basics of kinematics
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of kinematics before starting the course to enhance your comprehension of the concepts in the course syllabus.
Browse courses on
Kinematics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Revisit your notes or textbook on kinematics
- Solve practice problems related to kinematics
- Watch online videos or tutorials on kinematics concepts
14 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 17 activities
Review biomechanics
Show steps
This activity will help you recall the basics of the musculoskeletal system, kinematics, and other relevant knowledge to better understand human locomotion
Browse courses on
Biomechanics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review notes and readings from previous biomechanics courses or textbooks
- Create flashcards for key terms and concepts in biomechanics and musculoskeletal adaptations
- Watch online videos or animations that explain the basics of biomechanics
Review basic physics concepts
Show steps
Reviewing basic physics concepts, such as kinematics and mechanics, will help you understand the forces that act on the human body during bipedalism.
Browse courses on
Physics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the concepts of motion, force, and energy.
- Solve simple physics problems related to bipedalism.
Analyze bipedal locomotion in different animals
Show steps
This activity will allow you to observe and practice identifying the different ways that bipedal animals move, and compare and contrast them to human locomotion
Browse courses on
Bipedalism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find videos or documentaries that showcase the locomotion of different bipedal animals
- Observe and describe the animal's gait, posture, and joint movements
- Identify the adaptations that allow the animal to walk bipedally
- Compare and contrast the locomotion of different animals to human locomotion
Discuss the evolution of bipedalism with peers
Show steps
Discussing the evolution of bipedalism with peers will help you solidify your understanding of the topic and gain different perspectives.
Browse courses on
Human Evolution
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or online forum where you can connect with other students.
- Engage in discussions about the different theories and evidence related to the evolution of bipedalism.
Create a study guide
Show steps
This activity will help you organize and consolidate your understanding of the key concepts and materials covered in the course
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes, readings, and assignments from the course
- Identify the main themes and concepts covered in each module
- Summarize the key points and supporting evidence for each concept
- Create practice questions or exercises to test your understanding
Explore 3D renditions of human and animal fossils
Show steps
Engage with interactive 3D models to visualize and understand the musculoskeletal adaptations of humans and animals covered in this course, deepening your comprehension.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Access the online platform providing 3D fossil renditions
- Select a specific human or animal fossil to examine
- Rotate and zoom in on the fossil to observe its structures
- Read the accompanying information provided by the platform
- Take notes on your observations and any questions that arise
Practice identifying anatomical structures
Show steps
Practice identifying anatomical structures on human skeletal and muscular models, and on yourself, will help you visualize and understand how different body parts work together to enable bipedalism.
Browse courses on
Human Anatomy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain images of human skeletons and muscular systems.
- Label the major bones and muscles on the images.
- Practice identifying anatomical structures on yourself and others.
Explore 3D models of human and animal fossils
Show steps
Exploring 3D models of human and animal fossils will help you visualize the different adaptations that have evolved in bipedal species.
Browse courses on
Human Evolution
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online repositories for 3D models of human and animal fossils.
- Download and explore the models, paying attention to the skeletal and muscular structures.
- Compare and contrast the different models to identify adaptations for bipedalism.
Attend a conference or workshop on human locomotion
Show steps
This activity will expose you to cutting-edge research on human locomotion and provide opportunities to network with experts in the field
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research upcoming conferences or workshops on human locomotion
- Register for the event and attend the presentations and workshops
- Network with researchers and professionals in the field
Analyze the kinematics of different bipedal walkers
Show steps
Practice identifying and describing the unique movements of various bipedal walkers, strengthening your understanding of the diversity of bipedalism.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather videos or images of different bipedal animals, such as humans, penguins, and ostriches
- Observe and analyze their walking patterns, paying attention to joint movements, muscle activations, and overall coordination
- Identify similarities and differences in their kinematics
- Summarize your findings in a written report or presentation
3D Model Analysis
Show steps
This activity will help you understand the musculoskeletal adaptations of different animals and humans by creating and analyzing 3D models
Browse courses on
3D Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use a 3D modeling software to create a model of a human or animal skeleton
- Animate the model to simulate different types of locomotion
- Analyze the muscle and joint movements in the model
- Write a report summarizing your findings and insights
Design a model of a bipedal robot
Show steps
Designing a model of a bipedal robot will help you apply your understanding of the mechanics of bipedalism.
Browse courses on
Biomechanics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different types of bipedal robots and their designs.
- Develop a conceptual design for your own bipedal robot.
- Build a physical or virtual model of your robot.
- Test and evaluate your robot's performance.
Develop a presentation on the evolution of bipedalism
Show steps
Synthesize your knowledge of the origins and evolution of bipedalism by creating a comprehensive presentation, solidifying your understanding and improving your communication skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the key stages and milestones in the evolution of bipedalism
- Gather supporting evidence from scientific literature, fossils, and other relevant sources
- Organize your findings into a logical and visually appealing presentation
- Practice your presentation skills and seek feedback from peers or instructors
- Present your findings to an audience
Contribute to open-source projects related to bipedalism
Show steps
Contributing to open-source projects related to bipedalism will help you deepen your understanding of the field and apply your skills.
Browse courses on
Biomechanics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find open-source projects related to bipedalism.
- Identify ways to contribute to these projects.
- Make code contributions, write documentation, or report bugs.
Career center
Learners who complete Mechanics & Origins of Bipedalism will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Biomechanist
Biomechanist
Biomechanists study the mechanics of living organisms, including humans. A strong understanding of human movement and musculoskeletal adaptation is essential for someone in this field. This course could provide a solid basis for further study.
Kinesiologist
Kinesiologist
Kinesiologists study human movement and use this knowledge to improve human performance and overall well-being. This course could provide a strong foundation for someone interested in entering this field.
Paleontologist
Paleontologist
Paleontologists study the history of life on Earth. This course may provide useful insights into the evolution of bipedalism and how our ancestors moved.
Athletic Trainer
Athletic Trainer
Athletic Trainers specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries in athletes. A background in human movement and musculoskeletal adaptation is essential and could benefit an athletic trainer.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. This course may help build a foundation for understanding the evolution of bipedalism and how it has shaped human society.
Sports Medicine Physician
Sports Medicine Physician
Sports Medicine Physicians focus on the medical care of athletes, specializing in sports-related injuries and illnesses. This course may help build a foundation for someone interested in better understanding the mechanics of human movement and musculoskeletal adaptations in the context of sports performance and injuries.
Prosthetist
Prosthetist
Prosthetists design and fit artificial limbs and other devices to replace missing body parts. This course could provide insight into how the human body moves and how to design prosthetics to mimic natural movement.
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists help people regain movement and manage pain. It is common for them to use knowledge of human movement and musculoskeletal adaptation in order to do so. Thus, someone interested in becoming a physical therapist may find this course relevant to their work.
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise Physiologists help people improve their health and fitness through exercise. This course may help build a foundation for understanding the effects of exercise on the human body.
Zoologist
Zoologist
Zoologists study the behavior, physiology, anatomy, and classification of animals. This course may help build a foundation for understanding the evolution of bipedalism and how it has shaped the animal kingdom.
Ergonomist
Ergonomist
Ergonomists focus on designing workplaces, products, and systems to fit the human body. An understanding of human movement and locomotor adaptations is essential for those in this field. This course could provide a basic foundation.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist
An Occupational Therapist helps people regain or improve skills needed for daily function. This course may help build a foundation for understanding the challenges faced by patients with musculoskeletal issues or those recovering from surgery.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers analyze and design equipment for the medical field. This course may be useful to those looking to specialize in building and maintaining powered exosuits.
Dance Instructor
Dance Instructor
Dance Instructors teach dance to individuals or groups. This course may provide useful insights into human movement and how the body moves in different ways in order to teach more effectively.
Chiropractor
Chiropractor
Chiropractors focus on the relationship between the spine and nervous system, diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders. This course could help a chiropractor understand more about human movement and posture.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qgrner/mechanics
Reading list
We've selected 11 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
Mechanics & Origins of Bipedalism.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the origins and evolution of bipedalism in primates, including humans.
This textbook provides an overview of human evolution, including the origins and evolution of bipedalism.
Provides a detailed overview of the evolution of primate locomotion, including the origins and evolution of bipedalism.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the functional and evolutionary biology of primates. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in primate evolution.
Save
Provides a detailed overview of the muscles of vertebrates, including the muscles of the musculoskeletal system and their role in locomotion.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the biomechanics of human movement, including the mechanics of bipedalism.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of human anatomy and physiology. It valuable resource for students interested in the human body.
Provides a detailed overview of the physiology of locomotion, including the mechanics of bipedalism.
Provides a detailed overview of animal locomotion, including the mechanics of bipedalism.
This textbook provides a qualitative approach to biomechanics. It valuable resource for students interested in the mechanics of human movement.
Provides a detailed overview of the biomechanics of walking, including the mechanics of bipedalism.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qgrner/mechanics
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Via
Coursera
Institution
Dartmouth College
Instructor
Jeremy DeSilva
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Bipedalism: The Science of Upright Walking. It's comprised of three courses:
- Inquiries Into Bipedalism
- Experiments and Variations in Bipedalism
- Mechanics & Origins of Bipedalism (viewing)
Good to know
Develops strong foundational skills needed for understanding advanced topics surrounding human locomotion
Emphasizes hands-on learning through interactive materials like 3D models, providing students with a deeper understanding of human locomotion
Provides learners a unique and comprehensive understanding of human and animal locomotion, focusing on topics such as kinematics, musculoskeletal adaptations, and bipedalism
Course materials were designed by instructors recognized for their expertise in the field of human locomotion research
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