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Intro to the Arctic

4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 32 ratings
see reviews
Mark C. Serreze

In this course you will first learn about the Arctic as a geographic region, the peoples the Arctic, and the long history of Arctic settlement and exploration. Attention then turns to key features of the Arctic environment – its climate and weather, features of the ocean, sea ice, lands and the Greenland Ice Sheet, and some of the rapid changes being observed.

Learning Objectives: Appreciate the long history of the Arctic and its

peoples. Recognize and recall the physical geography of the Arctic, including

major features of the Arctic Ocean and Arctic lands. Describe the key climate and

Read more

In this course you will first learn about the Arctic as a geographic region, the peoples the Arctic, and the long history of Arctic settlement and exploration. Attention then turns to key features of the Arctic environment – its climate and weather, features of the ocean, sea ice, lands and the Greenland Ice Sheet, and some of the rapid changes being observed.

Learning Objectives: Appreciate the long history of the Arctic and its

peoples. Recognize and recall the physical geography of the Arctic, including

major features of the Arctic Ocean and Arctic lands. Describe the key climate and

environmental elements of the Arctic, including its sea ice cover, patterns of

temperature, precipitation, snow cover, land ice, permafrost and vegetation, the

physical processes giving rise to these features, and how they are changing.

Enroll now

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the Arctic
With so much going on in the Arctic, it can be a challenge to decide where to start. This week we provide an overview of the Arctic as a geographic region, followed by some of the pronounced changes unfolding in the North, such as rapid warming, the shrinking sea ice cover and thawing permafrost. History provides context. As such, we need to explore how we built our knowledge of the Arctic, starting with the sometimes tragic ends of early explorers searching for the fabled Northwest Passage, then moving through the Cold War and into the present.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Challenges the learner to connect contextually with the Arctic's peoples, history, and exploration
Introduces foundational climate and environmental concepts, enabling learners to understand the interconnectedness of Arctic systems
Delves into Arctic Ocean dynamics and features, fostering a deeper understanding of frozen water systems
Provides insights into terrestrial landscapes, broadening perspectives on the Arctic's diverse environments
Explores the Arctic's influence on weather patterns, highlighting the interconnectedness of global systems
Offers a comprehensive overview of Arctic physical geography, suitable for students seeking a foundational understanding

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive introduction to the arctic

According to students, this course offers an incredibly comprehensive introduction to the Arctic, making complex topics accessible and engaging for beginners. Learners consistently highlight the instructor's passion and clarity in the lectures, which cover history, peoples, environment, and climate changes. A significant strength noted is the up-to-date and relevant content, crucial for understanding this rapidly evolving region. While it provides a solid foundation, some learners with prior knowledge found the coverage to be surface-level at times, wishing for more in-depth scientific rigor or more challenging quizzes. Overall, it is highly recommended as an excellent starting point.
Material is up-to-date and crucial for a rapidly changing region.
"The material is up-to-date, which is crucial for a rapidly changing region like the Arctic."
"I appreciated how current the information on environmental changes felt."
"The content is highly relevant and very well presented. I particularly valued the updated information on the rapidly changing Arctic."
Instructor's clear explanations make complex topics enjoyable.
"The lectures were well-structured and the instructor's passion for the subject was infectious."
"The instructor breaks down complex topics into digestible chunks. It's a great starting point."
"The explanations of scientific concepts were clear, and the instructor's enthusiasm made the learning process enjoyable."
"The instructor makes complex topics accessible. I gained a much better appreciation of the region's importance."
Provides a broad and detailed introduction to the Arctic.
"This course provides an incredibly comprehensive introduction to the Arctic, covering its history, people, environment, and climate changes."
"An excellent overview! As someone with no prior knowledge of the Arctic, I found this course incredibly accessible and engaging."
"The course gives a solid foundation, though I wished there were more discussions or interactive elements."
"I learned a lot about the Arctic. The history and physical geography sections were excellent. It's really well done for a general audience."
Some found pacing rushed; quizzes could be more challenging.
"It covers a lot of ground, perhaps too much in some weeks, which made it feel a bit rushed at times."
"I found the module on Arctic lands particularly informative... Some more challenging quizzes would have been nice to reinforce learning."
"Some topics felt a bit rushed, especially towards the end. The quizzes were straightforward."
Suited for beginners, may lack advanced detail for some learners.
"Decent course, but not as in-depth as I hoped. Some key areas were only briefly touched upon."
"The course felt a bit surface-level for me. I was hoping for more scientific rigor in the climate sections."
"It's good for a casual interest, but if you're looking for deep dives, you might need supplemental material."
"It's more of an overview, so don't expect specialist-level detail. But for a general audience, it's really well done."

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 Intro to the Arctic with these activities:
The Great Warming
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Arctic climate change, from the early explorers to the present day.
View No hiding place: The New York Times inside... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book.
  • Take notes on the key points.
  • Write a summary of the book.
  • Discuss the book with your classmates.
Review underlying climate science
Reviewing underlying climate science concepts will provide a strong foundation for understanding the course material.
Browse courses on Climate Science
Show steps
  • Review basic concepts of climate science, such as the greenhouse effect and global warming.
  • Read scientific articles and reports on climate change to gain a deeper understanding of the topic.
Develop a presentation on Arctic exploration history
Creating a presentation on Arctic exploration history will help students develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and achievements of Arctic explorers.
Show steps
  • Research the history of Arctic exploration, including key explorers and expeditions.
  • Organize the information into a logical flow.
  • Create visual aids, such as maps, timelines, and images, to support the presentation.
  • Practice delivering the presentation.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Solution Set for Selected Exercises
Completing the selected exercises will reinforce the concepts presented in each module.
Show steps
  • Access the solution set from the course website.
  • Review the solutions for exercises 1-10 for each module.
  • Attempt to solve the exercises on your own before reviewing the solutions.
  • Note any areas where your understanding is weak.
  • Review the solutions for the exercises you struggled with.
Analyze Arctic weather patterns
Analyzing Arctic weather patterns will help students develop a deeper understanding of the region's climate and how it is changing.
Browse courses on Weather Analysis
Show steps
  • Gather data on Arctic weather patterns from various sources, such as weather stations and satellites.
  • Use data visualization tools to create graphs and charts that illustrate the patterns.
  • Identify and analyze trends and anomalies in the data.
Arctic Climate Change Debate
This debate will help you to develop a deeper understanding of the different perspectives on Arctic climate change.
Show steps
  • Research the different perspectives on Arctic climate change.
  • Prepare your arguments for the debate.
  • Participate in the debate.
  • Listen to the arguments of your classmates.
  • Evaluate the evidence presented by both sides.
Arctic Weather Forecasting
This project will allow you to apply the concepts of Arctic climate and weather to a real-world scenario.
Browse courses on Weather Forecasting
Show steps
  • Gather data on Arctic weather patterns.
  • Identify the key factors that influence Arctic weather.
  • Develop a model to forecast Arctic weather.
  • Test your model on historical data.
  • Create a presentation to share your findings.
Arctic Research Database
This compilation will help you stay up-to-date on the latest Arctic research and provide a valuable resource for your studies.
Show steps
  • Search for articles, reports, and other resources on Arctic research.
  • Create a database to organize your findings.
  • Include information on the following topics: climate change, sea ice, biodiversity, and human impacts.
  • Share your database with other students and researchers.
Arctic Cleanup
This volunteer opportunity will allow you to make a real difference in the fight against Arctic pollution.
Browse courses on Environmental Protection
Show steps
  • Contact a local environmental organization.
  • Inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Participate in a cleanup event.
  • Help to remove litter and debris from the Arctic environment.
  • Educate others about the importance of protecting the Arctic.

Career center

Learners who complete Intro to the Arctic will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Conservation Scientist
A Conservation Scientist conducts research to study the environment and determine how to protect it. Specialists in this role are charged with studying the impacts of climate change, habitat loss, and pollution on wildlife, plants, and ecosystems. Individuals seeking to enter this career path may find the course's focus on the Arctic's climate and environmental elements particularly relevant. Studying these elements can help build a foundation for a career that focuses on the impacts of human activity on the environment.
See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Scientist
Climatologist
A Climatologist conducts research that helps predict climate patterns. This professional studies past and current climate conditions in order to make predictions about future climate changes. The course's focus on the Arctic's climate and environmental elements may be useful in building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Climatologist
Environmental Scientist
An Environmental Scientist conducts research in order to provide scientific information for policy making related to air and water quality, hazardous waste management, and other environmental problems. Specialists in this role may also advise government agencies and private corporations on how to reduce their environmental impact. The course's focus on the Arctic's climate and environmental elements, as well as the impact of climate change on the Arctic, may be useful in building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist
Oceanographer
An Oceanographer studies the oceans, including their physical properties, chemical composition, and marine life. Individuals in this role may work with ocean currents and temperatures, conduct marine life surveys, or assist in other ocean-related work. The course's focus on the Arctic Ocean may prove useful in building a foundation for this career path.
See salaries and explore the career path for Oceanographer
Meteorologist
A Meteorologist analyzes weather patterns and uses specialized equipment to collect and analyze data on atmospheric conditions. This professional may make weather forecasts, issue severe weather warnings, and conduct research on weather-related phenomena. The course's focus on the Arctic's climate and weather may be helpful for building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Meteorologist
Geoscientist
A Geoscientist studies the composition and structure of the Earth and its processes. Specialists in this role may focus on the study of rocks, minerals, fossils, and other geological features. Individuals interested in this role may find the course's focus on the Arctic's physical geography, including its lands and the Greenland Ice Sheet, useful in developing a foundation for this career path.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geoscientist
Geographer
A Geographer studies the Earth's physical features, its climate, and its human and animal inhabitants. This professional may work in a variety of fields, including environmental protection, urban planning, and education. The course's focus on the Arctic's geographic region may prepare individuals for a career in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geographer
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst
A Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst creates and analyzes maps and other visual representations of geographic information. Specialists in this role may use GIS software to create maps and databases that can be used to analyze and solve real-world problems. The course's focus on the Arctic's geography, climate, and environmental elements may be useful in building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst
Environmental Consultant
An Environmental Consultant provides advice and services to organizations on how to comply with environmental regulations and reduce their environmental impact. This professional may also conduct environmental impact assessments and develop environmental management plans. The course's focus on the Arctic's climate and environmental elements may be helpful for building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant
Environmental Educator
An Environmental Educator develops and delivers educational programs that teach people about the environment and environmental issues. Specialists in this role may work in schools, museums, nature centers, and other educational settings. The course's focus on the Arctic's climate and environmental elements, as well as the impact of climate change on the Arctic, may be useful in building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Educator
Science Writer
A Science Writer communicates complex scientific information to a lay audience. This professional may write articles, books, and other materials that explain scientific concepts and discoveries. The course's focus on the Arctic's climate and environmental elements may be helpful for building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst conducts research and analyzes policy issues in order to inform policy decisions. This professional may work in a variety of fields, including environmental policy, energy policy, and health policy. The course's focus on the Arctic's climate and environmental elements, as well as the impact of climate change on the Arctic, may be useful in building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst
Science Teacher
A Science Teacher teaches science to students in a variety of settings, including schools, museums, and nature centers. Specialists in this role may teach a variety of science subjects, including earth science, biology, and chemistry. The course's focus on the Arctic's climate and environmental elements may be helpful for building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Teacher
Museum curator
A Museum Curator is responsible for the care and management of museum collections. This professional may also develop and deliver educational programs that teach people about the museum's collection. The course's focus on the Arctic's history and culture may be helpful for building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator
Historian
A Historian researches and writes about the past. This professional may work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and libraries. The course's focus on the Arctic's history and culture may be helpful for building a foundation for this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historian

Reading list

We've selected nine 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 Intro to the Arctic.
Cover image
The Arctic
Save
Concise overview of the Arctic. It covers the history, geography, climate, and environment of the Arctic, as well as the challenges it faces.
The Arctic
Paperback
Check
The Arctic
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Best American Science and Nature Writing 2024
Save
Discusses the impact of human activity on the natural world. It argues that we are in the midst of a global environmental crisis and that we need to take action to address it.
The Best American Science and Nature Writing 2024
Paperback
Check
The Best American Science and Nature Writing 2024
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Serviceberry
Save
Blend of science and memoir that explores the relationship between humans and the natural world. It offers a unique perspective on the Arctic and its importance to indigenous peoples.
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the...
Hardcover
$$
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Icebound
Save
Photographic history of the Arctic. It includes images from the earliest explorers to the present day and provides a unique visual record of the changes that have taken place in the Arctic over time.
Icebound: Shipwrecked at the Edge of the World
Paperback
$$
Icebound: Shipwrecked at the Edge of the World
Kindle Edition
$
Give Me Winter, Give Me Dogs: Knud Rasmussen and...
Save
Provides a comprehensive history of the Arctic. It discusses the different cultures and peoples who have lived in the Arctic, as well as the different ways in which the Arctic has been explored and exploited.
Give Me Winter, Give Me Dogs: Knud Rasmussen and...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
The Village of Ben Suc
Save
Discusses the potential consequences of climate change. It argues that climate change serious threat to human civilization and that we need to take action to address it.
The Village of Ben Suc
Paperback
$$
Village of Ben Suc
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Sixth Extinction (10th Anniversary Edition)
Save
Discusses the history of mass extinctions on Earth. It argues that we are currently in the midst of a sixth mass extinction, which is being caused by human activity.
The Sixth Extinction (Tenth Anniversary Edition)
Audible Audiobook
$$
Playground
Save
Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that tells the story of nine characters who are connected by their love of trees. It explores the importance of trees to the environment and to human life.
Playground: A Novel
Hardcover
$$
Playground
Audible Audiobook
$$
(Deutsch) Playground (German edition)
Audible Audiobook
$$
Playground: A Novel
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Third Chimpanzee for Young People
Save
Discusses the factors that can lead to the collapse of societies. It argues that societies that are unable to adapt to change are more likely to fail.
The Third Chimpanzee for Young People: On the...
Paperback
$$
The Third Chimpanzee for Young People: On the...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Rating
4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
6 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Mark C. Serreze
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша
This course belongs to a collection called Arctic Meltdown. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Intro to the Arctic (viewing)
  2. Polar Peril
  3. The North Awakens
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Challenges the learner to connect contextually with the Arctic's peoples, history, and exploration
Introduces foundational climate and environmental concepts, enabling learners to understand the interconnectedness of Arctic systems
Delves into Arctic Ocean dynamics and features, fostering a deeper understanding of frozen water systems
Provides insights into terrestrial landscapes, broadening perspectives on the Arctic's diverse environments
Explores the Arctic's influence on weather patterns, highlighting the interconnectedness of global systems
Offers a comprehensive overview of Arctic physical geography, suitable for students seeking a foundational understanding
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