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Mark C. Serreze
In this course, you will learn how the changing Arctic environment is tied to the growing economic and strategic importance of the North. After setting the stage through a review of the peoples of the Arctic and how they are dealing with change, Arctic governance, economies national defense, attention turns to marine use of the Arctic, oil and gas exploration, mining, fisheries and tourism. The course ends with a survey of recent Arctic events.
Read more
In this course, you will learn how the changing Arctic environment is tied to the growing economic and strategic importance of the North. After setting the stage through a review of the peoples of the Arctic and how they are dealing with change, Arctic governance, economies national defense, attention turns to marine use of the Arctic, oil and gas exploration, mining, fisheries and tourism. The course ends with a survey of recent Arctic events.
Read more
In this course, you will learn how the changing Arctic environment is tied to the growing economic and strategic importance of the North. After setting the stage through a review of the peoples of the Arctic and how they are dealing with change, Arctic governance, economies national defense, attention turns to marine use of the Arctic, oil and gas exploration, mining, fisheries and tourism. The course ends with a survey of recent Arctic events.
Learning Objectives: Articulate the drivers of the growing economic and strategic importance of the Arctic in the context of the environmental changes unfolding in the region, governance, and geopolitics. Identify the impacts of the changing Arctic, both positive and negative, on the peoples of the North.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/z0uav7/arctic
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What's inside
Syllabus
Arctic Peoples, Governance, Economics and Geopolitics
This week, we'll take a closer look at the peoples of the Arctic - the Arctic as a homeland - and then turn attention to the role of the Arctic Council of the eight Arctic nations. After a foray into Arctic demographics, we'll briefly look at some of the big economic drivers in the Arctic (setting a stage for later more focused discussion in subsequent modules) and how the changing Arctic is playing into national defense.
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Syllabus
Arctic Peoples, Governance, Economics and Geopolitics
This week, we'll take a closer look at the peoples of the Arctic - the Arctic as a homeland - and then turn attention to the role of the Arctic Council of the eight Arctic nations. After a foray into Arctic demographics, we'll briefly look at some of the big economic drivers in the Arctic (setting a stage for later more focused discussion in subsequent modules) and how the changing Arctic is playing into national defense.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores the Arctic region's growing geopolitical importance due to climate change, presenting both economic opportunities and strategic geopolitical considerations
Taught by a renowned polar scientist, Mark Serreze, who brings a wealth of expertise to the course
Provides insights into how the Arctic environment is interconnected with global environmental issues
Examines the impacts of Arctic change on the livelihoods and cultures of indigenous Arctic communities
Covers a broad range of topics related to the Arctic, from governance to resource extraction to tourism
Offers a comprehensive overview of the environmental, economic, and geopolitical dynamics shaping the Arctic
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Reviews summary
Arctic geopolitics & environmental shifts
According to learners, 'The North Awakens' offers a largely positive and highly relevant exploration of the Arctic's evolving landscape. Students praise its comprehensive coverage, connecting environmental changes to economic and strategic importance. The instructor's expertise and engaging delivery are frequently highlighted as strengths, making complex geopolitical issues understandable. While some find the content well-structured and timely, a few suggest certain areas could benefit from more depth or updated data, and some felt the delivery was a bit dry or that assignments were basic. Overall, it serves as an excellent foundation for understanding this critical region.
Instructors demonstrate deep knowledge and effective teaching.
"The instructor's expertise shines through, making complex geopolitical issues understandable."
"The instructor's delivery was engaging, and the lectures were always clear and well-organized."
"Excellent course content and presentation. The instructors clearly passionate and knowledgeable."
"The instructors did an amazing job breaking down intricate subjects into manageable lessons."
Offers a wide-ranging exploration of Arctic dynamics.
"Absolutely eye-opening! This course provided an incredibly detailed and timely analysis of the Arctic's changing landscape."
"A solid foundation in Arctic studies. The content is well-structured and covers a broad range of topics from indigenous peoples to economic drivers."
"It covered everything promised in the syllabus, from Arctic peoples to governance and marine law. I feel much more informed about this critical region."
"I found this course incredibly useful for understanding the complex dynamics of the Arctic. The breadth of topics covered is impressive."
Lectures are solid, but interaction and assignments could improve.
"Assignments were somewhat basic."
"Not as engaging as I hoped for."
"I wish there were more interactive elements or discussion prompts. Some parts felt lecture-heavy with less interaction."
Generally current, but some data points could be updated.
"My only suggestion would be to update some of the data points, as the region is changing so rapidly."
"While the topic is important, the course felt a bit outdated. Some statistics seemed old, and the discussion didn't always reflect the most recent geopolitical shifts."
"The way it surveyed recent Arctic events was very current."
Some areas lack depth for advanced learners, pacing can be slow.
"Good overview, but I felt it lacked depth in certain areas. If you have prior knowledge, you might find some parts too introductory."
"Decent course, but a little dry at times. The information is solid, but the delivery could be more dynamic. Some lectures felt like a recitation of facts."
"Informative, but sometimes felt like a general university lecture. The pacing was a bit slow for me. Good if you're completely new to the subject..."
"Many topics were just skimmed over, and the quality of some video lectures was poor. I struggled to stay engaged."
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 The North Awakens with these
activities:
Compile a resource list on Arctic tourism
Show steps
Prepare for potential travel or research opportunities in the Arctic by compiling a comprehensive list of resources.
Show steps
-
Research and identify reputable websites, articles, and videos on Arctic tourism.
-
Create a document or spreadsheet to organize and categorize the resources.
-
Include information on destinations, tour operators, travel tips, and environmental considerations.
Follow online tutorials on Arctic oil and gas exploration
Show steps
Gain practical knowledge about the technical and environmental challenges of Arctic oil and gas exploration.
Show steps
-
Identify reputable online resources that offer tutorials on Arctic oil and gas exploration.
-
Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises and assignments.
-
Apply your newly acquired knowledge in discussions or projects related to Arctic resource development.
Attend a workshop on Arctic governance
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the complex and evolving Arctic governance landscape.
Browse courses on
Arctic Governance
Show steps
-
Research and identify relevant workshops on Arctic governance.
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and exercises.
-
Follow up with speakers or organizers to explore further learning opportunities.
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Participate in a study group focused on Arctic mining
Show steps
Engage in collaborative learning and exchange ideas about the environmental, social, and economic implications of Arctic mining.
Show steps
-
Form a study group with peers who share an interest in Arctic mining.
-
Establish a regular meeting schedule and agenda.
-
Discuss research findings, case studies, and current events related to Arctic mining.
-
Prepare and deliver presentations on specific aspects of Arctic mining.
Compile a resource list on Arctic tourism
Show steps
Prepare for potential travel or research opportunities in the Arctic by compiling a comprehensive list of resources.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify reputable websites, articles, and videos on Arctic tourism.
- Create a document or spreadsheet to organize and categorize the resources.
- Include information on destinations, tour operators, travel tips, and environmental considerations.
Follow online tutorials on Arctic oil and gas exploration
Show steps
Gain practical knowledge about the technical and environmental challenges of Arctic oil and gas exploration.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable online resources that offer tutorials on Arctic oil and gas exploration.
- Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises and assignments.
- Apply your newly acquired knowledge in discussions or projects related to Arctic resource development.
Attend a workshop on Arctic governance
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the complex and evolving Arctic governance landscape.
Browse courses on
Arctic Governance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify relevant workshops on Arctic governance.
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and exercises.
- Follow up with speakers or organizers to explore further learning opportunities.
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Participate in a study group focused on Arctic mining
Show steps
Engage in collaborative learning and exchange ideas about the environmental, social, and economic implications of Arctic mining.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form a study group with peers who share an interest in Arctic mining.
- Establish a regular meeting schedule and agenda.
- Discuss research findings, case studies, and current events related to Arctic mining.
- Prepare and deliver presentations on specific aspects of Arctic mining.
Career center
Learners who complete The North Awakens will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum Engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from the Earth. They also work to ensure that oil and gas production is done in a safe and environmentally friendly way. The course The North Awakens can help Petroleum Engineers understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting oil and gas exploration and production. This knowledge can help Petroleum Engineers develop new technologies and strategies for extracting oil and gas in the Arctic in a sustainable way.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its components, and how they interact with each other. They use this knowledge to develop solutions to environmental problems. The course The North Awakens can help Environmental Scientists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the environment and its components. This knowledge can help Environmental Scientists develop new strategies for protecting the Arctic environment.
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system and how it is changing. They use this knowledge to predict future climate change and develop strategies to mitigate its effects. The course The North Awakens can help Climate Scientists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the Earth's climate system. This knowledge can help Climate Scientists develop new models of the climate system and better understand the processes that drive it.
Oceanographer
Oceanographer
Oceanographers study the oceans and their physical, chemical, and biological properties. They use this knowledge to understand the role of the oceans in the Earth's climate system and how the oceans are affected by human activities. The course The North Awakens can help Oceanographers understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the oceans. This knowledge can help Oceanographers develop new models of the ocean system and better understand the processes that drive it.
Conservationist
Conservationist
Conservationists work to protect the environment and its resources. They develop and implement conservation plans, and work with governments and businesses to promote conservation. The course The North Awakens can help Conservationists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the environment and its resources. This knowledge can help Conservationists develop new strategies for protecting the Arctic environment.
Geologist
Geologist
Geologists study the Earth's structure, rocks, and soil. They use this knowledge to find oil and gas, water, and other resources. The course The North Awakens can help Geologists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the availability of resources in the region. This knowledge can help Geologists make better decisions about where to explore for resources and how to extract them in a sustainable way.
Geophysicist
Geophysicist
Geophysicists study the physical properties of the Earth, including its magnetic field, gravity, and heat flow. They use this information to understand the Earth's structure and dynamics. The course The North Awakens can help Geophysicists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the Earth's physical properties. This knowledge can help Geophysicists develop new models of the Earth's system and better understand the processes that drive it.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologists study the biology, behavior, and populations of wild animals. They use this knowledge to develop conservation plans and manage wildlife populations. The course The North Awakens can help Wildlife Biologists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting wildlife populations. This knowledge can help Wildlife Biologists develop new strategies for conserving wildlife in the Arctic.
Ecologist
Ecologist
Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. They use this knowledge to understand how ecosystems function and how they are affected by human activities. The course The North Awakens can help Ecologists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting ecosystems. This knowledge can help Ecologists develop new strategies for protecting ecosystems in the Arctic.
Marine Biologist
Marine Biologist
Marine Biologists study the biology, behavior, and populations of marine organisms. They use this knowledge to understand how marine ecosystems function and how they are affected by human activities. The course The North Awakens can help Marine Biologists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting marine ecosystems. This knowledge can help Marine Biologists develop new strategies for conserving marine ecosystems in the Arctic.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts develop and evaluate public policies. They use their knowledge of public policy and the political process to help policymakers make informed decisions. The course The North Awakens can help Policy Analysts understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the Arctic region. This knowledge can help Policy Analysts develop new policies to address the challenges facing the Arctic region.
International Relations Specialist
International Relations Specialist
International Relations Specialists work to promote cooperation and understanding between countries. They use their knowledge of international relations and diplomacy to help resolve conflicts and build partnerships. The course The North Awakens can help International Relations Specialists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the Arctic region. This knowledge can help International Relations Specialists develop new strategies for promoting cooperation and understanding in the Arctic region.
National Security Analyst
National Security Analyst
National Security Analysts assess threats to national security and develop strategies to protect the country from these threats. They use their knowledge of national security and international relations to help policymakers make informed decisions. The course The North Awakens can help National Security Analysts understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the Arctic region. This knowledge can help National Security Analysts develop new strategies to protect the country from threats in the Arctic region.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. They use their knowledge of journalism and the news media to inform the public about important issues. The course The North Awakens can help Journalists understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the Arctic region. This knowledge can help Journalists report on the Arctic region in an accurate and informative way.
Educator
Educator
Educators teach students about a variety of subjects. They use their knowledge of education and curriculum development to help students learn and grow. The course The North Awakens can help Educators understand the environmental changes in the Arctic and how these changes are affecting the Arctic region. This knowledge can help Educators teach students about the Arctic region in an accurate and informative way.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/z0uav7/arctic
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
The North Awakens.
Provides a comprehensive history of the Arctic, from its earliest exploration to the present day. It valuable resource for understanding the region's complex political, economic, and environmental issues.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Arctic, covering its history, geography, environment, and politics. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the region.
Save
Provides a stunning visual exploration of the Arctic. It beautiful and informative resource for anyone interested in the region.
Save
Provides a stunning photographic journey through the Arctic. It showcases the region's diverse landscapes, wildlife, and peoples.
Examines the history of Arctic law, from the early exploration of the region to the present day. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the legal frameworks governing the Arctic.
Explores the political history of the Arctic, from the early colonial era to the present day. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the region's complex political landscape.
Provides a concise overview of the Arctic, covering its history, geography, environment, and politics. It useful introduction to the region for general readers.
Explores the cultural history of the Arctic, from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. It fascinating read for anyone interested in the region's rich cultural heritage.
Provides a comprehensive travel guide to the Arctic. It valuable resource for anyone planning a trip to the region.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/z0uav7/arctic
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Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Mark C. Serreze
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Arctic Meltdown. It's comprised of three courses:
- Intro to the Arctic
- Polar Peril
- The North Awakens (viewing)
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