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David Archer
This class provides a series of Python programming exercises intended to explore the use of numerical modeling in the Earth system and climate sciences. The scientific background for these models is presented in a companion class, Global Warming I: The Science and Modeling of Climate Change. This class assumes that you are new to Python programming (and this is indeed a great way to learn Python!), but that you will be able to pick up an elementary knowledge of Python syntax from another class or from on-line tutorials.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/v0nptr/global
What's inside
Syllabus
Time-Dependent Energy Balance Model
This class is intended to complement a Coursera class called Global Warming I: The Science and Modeling of Climate Change, which presents much of the background to the material here. In this class you'll be using spreadsheets (maybe) and Python (definitely) to do some simple numerical calculations on topics in Earth System Science. The model you'll be working on this week is based on material from Unit 3 of that class, called First Climate Model.
Read more
Syllabus
Time-Dependent Energy Balance Model
This class is intended to complement a Coursera class called Global Warming I: The Science and Modeling of Climate Change, which presents much of the background to the material here. In this class you'll be using spreadsheets (maybe) and Python (definitely) to do some simple numerical calculations on topics in Earth System Science. The model you'll be working on this week is based on material from Unit 3 of that class, called First Climate Model.
Read more
Iterative Runaway Ice-Albedo Feedback Model
The ideas behind this model were explained in Unit 7, Feedbacks, in Part I of this class. First we get to generate simple linear "parameterization" functions of planetary albedo and the latitude to which ice forms (colder = lower latitude ice). Second, for any given value of the solar constant, L, we'll use iteration to find consistent values of albedo and T, to show the effect of the ice albedo feedback on Earth's temperature, running away to fall into the dreaded "snowball Earth".
Ice Sheet Dynamics
Ice flows like extra-thick molasses, downhill. The shape of the ice sheet (altitude versus distance across) is determined by the relationship between ice surface slope and the flow rate of the ice.
Pressure, Rotation, and Fluid Flow
Planetary rotation and fluid flow were explained in Part I of this class, Unit 6, on Weather and Climate.
A Model of Climate Changes Today
Background for this model was presented in Part I of this class, Unit 9, The Perturbed Carbon Cycle.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops programming skills and knowledge that are highly relevant to earth system and climate sciences
Serves as a suitable complement to a companion course on climate science
Provides a beginner-friendly introduction to Python programming
Builds a foundational understanding of numerical modeling in earth system and climate sciences
Students may require additional knowledge and support in Python programming beyond what is covered in this course
Assumes familiarity with elementary Python syntax before enrolling
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Save Global Warming II: Create Your Own Models in Python to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Climate modelling with python
Students largely agree that this course will help those who are new to Python learn modelling. However, they also frequently complain that there are too few students.
Course is useful as a Python primer.
"Great course for those who want to learn a little more about modelling, python and the climate!"
"This class assumes that you are new to Python programming (and this is indeed a great way to learn Python!)"
Difficulty rating varies across weeks.
"Great course, really interesting! The difficulty of the course didn't follow a linear growth, as week 4 was much more difficult than the others."
Not enough students currently enrolled.
"too few people in the course you can't learn anything if you don't get it immediately"
"Too few participants, cancelling my 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 Global Warming II: Create Your Own Models in Python with these
activities:
Review basic Python programming concepts
Show steps
Brush up on fundamental Python programming concepts to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
-
Review Python syntax and data types.
-
Complete practice exercises to reinforce your understanding.
Learn Python basics through online tutorials
Show steps
Build a solid foundation in Python programming by completing online tutorials.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
-
Identify online tutorials or courses that cover the basics of Python.
-
Follow the tutorials and complete the practice exercises.
Review Intermediate Python Syntax
Show steps
Python programming language is the focus of this course. Refreshing your Python syntax will aid in better outcomes.
Browse courses on
Python Syntax
Show steps
-
Review basic data types like integers, floats, strings, and lists
-
Review control flow statements like if-else and loops
-
Review built-in functions like range(), len(), and print()
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Read 'Python for Data Analysis'
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of Python programming by reading a book dedicated to data analysis.
View
Python for Data Analysis
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book chapters covering topics relevant to Earth System Science.
-
Complete the exercises and practice examples provided in the book.
Engage in peer discussions on Python and climate science
Show steps
Collaborate with peers to deepen your understanding of Python and climate science concepts.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
-
Find a study group or online forum for peer discussions.
-
Participate in discussions and share your knowledge.
Implement Python models on your own
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of numerical modeling in Python by implementing the models on your own.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
-
Review the provided Python code for each model.
-
Implement the models in your own Python environment.
-
Test your implementations to ensure they produce similar results to the provided code.
Write a short paper summarizing a key concept in Python programming or climate science
Show steps
Enhance your understanding and communication skills by writing a summary of a key concept.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
-
Identify a key concept in Python programming or climate science.
-
Research and gather information on the topic.
-
Write a clear and concise summary of the concept.
Develop a Python program to simulate a climate model
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of climate modeling by creating a simulation in Python.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
-
Design a simple climate model.
-
Implement the model in Python.
-
Run simulations and analyze the results.
Contribute to open-source projects in climate science
Show steps
Gain practical experience in climate science by contributing to open-source projects.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
-
Identify open-source climate science projects.
-
Join the project and start contributing.
Review basic Python programming concepts
Show steps
Brush up on fundamental Python programming concepts to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review Python syntax and data types.
- Complete practice exercises to reinforce your understanding.
Learn Python basics through online tutorials
Show steps
Build a solid foundation in Python programming by completing online tutorials.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify online tutorials or courses that cover the basics of Python.
- Follow the tutorials and complete the practice exercises.
Review Intermediate Python Syntax
Show steps
Python programming language is the focus of this course. Refreshing your Python syntax will aid in better outcomes.
Browse courses on
Python Syntax
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic data types like integers, floats, strings, and lists
- Review control flow statements like if-else and loops
- Review built-in functions like range(), len(), and print()
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Read 'Python for Data Analysis'
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of Python programming by reading a book dedicated to data analysis.
View
Python for Data Analysis
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book chapters covering topics relevant to Earth System Science.
- Complete the exercises and practice examples provided in the book.
Engage in peer discussions on Python and climate science
Show steps
Collaborate with peers to deepen your understanding of Python and climate science concepts.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or online forum for peer discussions.
- Participate in discussions and share your knowledge.
Implement Python models on your own
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of numerical modeling in Python by implementing the models on your own.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the provided Python code for each model.
- Implement the models in your own Python environment.
- Test your implementations to ensure they produce similar results to the provided code.
Write a short paper summarizing a key concept in Python programming or climate science
Show steps
Enhance your understanding and communication skills by writing a summary of a key concept.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a key concept in Python programming or climate science.
- Research and gather information on the topic.
- Write a clear and concise summary of the concept.
Develop a Python program to simulate a climate model
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of climate modeling by creating a simulation in Python.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Design a simple climate model.
- Implement the model in Python.
- Run simulations and analyze the results.
Contribute to open-source projects in climate science
Show steps
Gain practical experience in climate science by contributing to open-source projects.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source climate science projects.
- Join the project and start contributing.
Career center
Learners who complete Global Warming II: Create Your Own Models in Python will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system and its changes over time. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to climate modeling using Python, which is a valuable tool for Climate Scientists. The course covers topics such as iterative runaway ice-albedo feedback models and pressure, rotation, and fluid flow, which are essential for understanding the complex interactions within the climate system. Therefore, this course is highly recommended for Climate Scientists who want to develop their modeling skills.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use computational tools and mathematical techniques to analyze data and extract meaningful insights. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is essential for data science. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which are crucial for understanding climate change and its impact on the environment. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Data Scientists who want to specialize in climate science.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study environmental issues and develop solutions to protect the environment. This course provides a foundation in Python programming and climate modeling, which are increasingly important tools for Environmental Scientists. The course covers topics such as ice sheet dynamics and a model of climate changes today, which are essential for understanding the impact of climate change on the environment. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Environmental Scientists who want to specialize in climate science.
Meteorologist
Meteorologist
Meteorologists study the Earth's atmosphere and weather patterns. This course provides a foundation in Python programming and climate modeling, which are increasingly important tools for Meteorologists. The course covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and pressure, rotation, and fluid flow, which are essential for understanding the Earth's weather patterns. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Meteorologists who want to specialize in climate science.
Hydrologist
Hydrologist
Hydrologists study the movement and distribution of water on Earth. This course provides a foundation in Python programming and climate modeling, which are increasingly important tools for Hydrologists. The course covers topics such as a model of climate changes today and pressure, rotation, and fluid flow, which are essential for understanding the impact of climate change on water resources. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Hydrologists who want to specialize in climate science.
Geophysicist
Geophysicist
Geophysicists study the Earth's physical properties and processes. This course provides a foundation in Python programming and climate modeling, which are increasingly important tools for Geophysicists. The course covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and pressure, rotation, and fluid flow, which are essential for understanding the Earth's physical processes. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Geophysicists who want to specialize in climate science.
Oceanographer
Oceanographer
Oceanographers study the Earth's oceans and their role in the climate system. This course provides a foundation in Python programming and climate modeling, which are increasingly important tools for Oceanographers. The course covers topics such as ice sheet dynamics and a model of climate changes today, which are essential for understanding the impact of climate change on the oceans. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Oceanographers who want to specialize in climate science.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts design, develop, and maintain computer systems. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is increasingly important for developing and maintaining computer systems. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which can be useful for developing computer systems for climate science and environmental modeling. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Systems Analysts who want to specialize in climate science.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is a popular language for software development. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which can be useful for developing software applications for climate science and environmental modeling. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Software Engineers who want to specialize in climate science.
Web Developer
Web Developer
Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is increasingly important for developing and maintaining websites. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which can be useful for developing websites for climate science and environmental education. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Web Developers who want to specialize in climate science.
Actuary
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematical and statistical techniques to assess risk and uncertainty. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is increasingly important for actuaries. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which can be useful for assessing the risk and uncertainty of climate change. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Actuaries who want to specialize in climate risk.
Risk Manager
Risk Manager
Risk Managers use mathematical and statistical techniques to assess risk and uncertainty. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is increasingly important for risk managers. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which can be useful for assessing the risk and uncertainty of climate change. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Risk Managers who want to specialize in climate risk.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze financial data. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is increasingly important for financial analysts. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which can be useful for analyzing the financial impact of climate change. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Financial Analysts who want to specialize in climate finance.
Statistician
Statistician
Statisticians use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze data. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is increasingly important for statisticians. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which can be useful for analyzing climate data. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Statisticians who want to specialize in climate science.
Investment Analyst
Investment Analyst
Investment Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze investment data. This course provides a solid foundation in Python programming, which is increasingly important for investment analysts. The course also covers topics such as time-dependent energy balance models and ice sheet dynamics, which can be useful for analyzing the investment risk and return of climate-related investments. Therefore, this course can be particularly useful for Investment Analysts who want to specialize in climate investing.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/v0nptr/global
Reading list
We've selected 28 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
Global Warming II: Create Your Own Models in Python.
Comprehensive assessment of the physical science basis of climate change. It has been used to inform both professional and student audiences.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the global carbon cycle, covering topics such as the role of the oceans and terrestrial biosphere in regulating atmospheric CO2 levels. It offers a deeper understanding of the carbon cycle and its relevance to climate change.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to dynamical oceanography, covering a wide range of topics relevant to the course, including fluid dynamics, waves, tides, and ocean circulation. It offers a solid foundation in the physical principles governing oceanographic processes.
This is an introductory textbook to modeling scientific problems using numerical algorithms in the C programming language. The book assumes the reader has no prior programming knowledge. It is helpful learning about the basics of numerical modeling.
Save
This textbook covers the basic physics of climate change, with a focus on the role of the oceans. It is useful for a comprehensive understanding of climate science.
Textbook to introduce algorithms that are used in data science. Concepts in data mining, information extraction, and machine learning are covered.
Is normally used by data scientists and statisticians to learn or reference how to do data analysis in the Python programming language. It is helpful for expanding the use of Python programming for modeling.
Is helpful for learning the theory and algorithms that are used in machine learning.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the dynamics of the atmosphere and ocean, covering topics such as fluid dynamics, waves, and climate variability. It offers a broad understanding of the physical processes governing Earth's climate system.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to numerical modeling in the Earth sciences. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques, and includes practical exercises and case studies to help you apply numerical modeling to real-world problems.
Is helpful for getting started with learning the Python programming language.
Provides a broad overview of mathematical concepts and techniques used in the life sciences, including topics such as statistics, differential equations, and modeling. It offers a practical understanding of mathematical tools applicable to climate and Earth system science.
Provides a practical introduction to numerical methods for solving partial differential equations, which are essential for modeling physical processes in Earth system science. It covers finite difference methods, which are commonly used in climate models.
Provides an overview of the Earth system and its modeling, covering topics such as climate modeling, ecosystem modeling, and the role of human activities in Earth system dynamics. It offers a broader perspective on the application of numerical models in Earth science.
Provides an introduction to computational methods used in Earth system science, covering topics such as data analysis, modeling, and visualization. It offers a practical understanding of the computational techniques used in climate and Earth system modeling.
Provides a comprehensive treatment of advanced calculus, covering topics such as multivariable functions, vector calculus, and differential forms. It offers a solid foundation in mathematical concepts essential for understanding climate models and Earth system dynamics.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to geophysical fluid dynamics, which is essential for understanding the dynamics of the Earth's atmosphere and oceans. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced techniques, and includes practical exercises and case studies to help you apply geophysical fluid dynamics to real-world problems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science of climate change. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of climate science to the latest research on the impacts of climate change. It is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn more about climate change.
Examines the collapse of past civilizations and explores the factors that contribute to societal collapse. It fascinating and insightful book that will help you understand the challenges facing our own society.
Explores the history of humankind from the Stone Age to the present day. It thought-provoking and informative book that will help you understand the origins of our species and the challenges we face today.
Save
Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that explores the relationship between humans and trees. It beautifully written and thought-provoking book that will help you appreciate the importance of trees and the natural world.
Classic work of environmental literature that helped to raise awareness of the dangers of pesticides. It powerful and moving book that will inspire you to take action to protect the environment.
Powerful and moving account of the impact of climate change on the natural world. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing our planet.
Personal and passionate account of the challenges facing our planet. It powerful and moving book that will inspire you to take action to protect the environment.
Save
Thought-provoking and informative account of what would happen to the Earth if humans were to suddenly disappear. It fascinating and sobering book that will help you appreciate the fragility of our planet.
Save
Beautiful and inspiring account of the relationship between humans and the natural world. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the importance of indigenous knowledge and the teachings of plants.
Powerful and moving account of the impacts of climate change on the human world. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing our planet.
Save
Roadmap for a sustainable future. It provides practical solutions to the climate crisis and gives you the tools you need to make a difference.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/v0nptr/global
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Via
Coursera
Institution
The University of Chicago
Instructor
David Archer
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Pусский
Good to know
Develops programming skills and knowledge that are highly relevant to earth system and climate sciences
Serves as a suitable complement to a companion course on climate science
Provides a beginner-friendly introduction to Python programming
Builds a foundational understanding of numerical modeling in earth system and climate sciences
Students may require additional knowledge and support in Python programming beyond what is covered in this course
Assumes familiarity with elementary Python syntax before enrolling
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