Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/extinctions-past-present-and-future

Introduction

### Course Review: Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future on Coursera If you’ve ever pondered the fascinating yet somber topic of mass extinctions throughout history and their implications for our world today, "Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future" is a course you won't want to miss. Offered on Coursera, this course does an exceptional job of weaving together the threads of paleontology, geology, and environmental science, making complex subjects accessible and engaging for a diverse audience. #### Course Overview The course provides a comprehensive introduction to the five mass extinctions that have shaped life on Earth long before humans existed. You will delve into the causes behind these cataclysmic events, their significance in the grand narrative of biospheric evolution, and the stark reality of the ongoing sixth mass extinction currently facing our planet due to human activities. This is not merely a lecture-driven course; it is designed to be interactive and educational, complete with portable handouts, lively demonstrations, and quizzes that are tailored to reinforce your learning. #### Syllabus Breakdown The course is structured into several key modules, each building on the last: 1. **Introduction to Extinctions: Getting Started with the End** - Kick-off your learning journey with an examination of basic concepts and an overview of mass extinctions. This module sets the stage for understanding the monumental shifts that have occurred throughout Earth's history. 2. **Human Awareness of Extinctions: A History** - Explore how human perceptions of extinction have evolved over time. This section provides context by looking at historical perspectives and the role of cultural narratives. 3. **Mass Extinctions of the Pre-Human Past** - Dive into the core subject of the course: the five historical mass extinctions. Each extinction is dissected, examining causes, events, and the subsequent recovery of life. 4. **Extinctions of Pre-History & Near-Present (Pleistocene Epoch & Late Holocene Epoch)** - Investigate extinction events that occurred recently in geological terms. This module emphasizes the impacts of both natural changes and the influences of early human activity. 5. **Extinctions Since European Colonization & Going into the Future** - This module connects history to contemporary issues, analyzing how colonization and globalization have exacerbated extinction rates. Additionally, it looks forward, raising critical questions about what the future holds for biodiversity. #### Course Benefits One of the standout features of "Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future" is its accessibility—whether you are a student of the sciences or an interested layperson, the course materials cater to a wide range of background knowledge. The structure of the course promotes active learning; quizzes and interactive content stimulate thought and engagement. The use of portable handouts makes it easy to revisit key points or share them with peers, further enhancing the educational experience. #### Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend this course for anyone interested in environmental science, ecology, or the historical narratives of our planet. The insights gained through this course are relevant and urgently needed, particularly in the context of ongoing ecological crises and discussions around conservation strategies. Enroll in "Extinctions: Past, Present, & Future" on Coursera and embark on a thought-provoking journey that will not only expand your knowledge but also inspire a deeper understanding of humanity's role in the Earth’s biosphere. Whether you take it for personal enrichment or to level up your academic credentials, you won't regret diving into this intricate and vital topic.

Syllabus

Introduction to Extinctions: Getting Started with the End