Global Arctic

École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/global-arctic

Introduction

### Course Review: Global Arctic on Coursera **Overview** The Global Arctic course on Coursera is an intricate and insightful exploration of the Arctic region, its significance, and the profound changes it is currently undergoing due to global climate change. As the Arctic becomes increasingly accessible and affected by warming temperatures, understanding this fraught but fascinating area is crucial—both for its intrinsic value and its implications for the planet at large. This course serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the dynamics at play in the Arctic and how these, in turn, influence global conditions. ### Course Content #### Week 1: Earth System Dynamics The course kicks off with a comprehensive overview of the effects of climate change specific to the Arctic. This week effectively establishes a foundational understanding of how rising temperatures in this polar region reverberate across the globe. The lectures delve into the biodiversity challenges the Arctic faces while simultaneously addressing pollution issues. Participants will appreciate the detailed presentations and the use of case studies that highlight these critical aspects. #### Week 2: Arctic Resources and the Quest for Them In the second week, the course shifts to the exploration of various resources found in the Arctic. From fisheries to mineral extraction, the lectures stress the ongoing quest for resources and the burgeoning industries like tourism and oil & gas that are part of this rush. This week draws attention not just to the benefits of resource extraction but also to the environmental and ethical questions that arise from exploiting these fragile ecosystems. #### Week 3: The Evolving Image and Significance of the Arctic Moving into the historical context, the third week of the course charts the changing narratives around the Arctic, from its early colonization during the Viking Age to its current status as an industrial frontier. This section is particularly enriching as it situates current trends within a historical framework, examining how perceptions of the Arctic have shifted and the implications of these changes. It offers a nuanced perspective on the Anthropocene era and includes discussions on geopolitical dynamics, including initiatives like the Chinese Polar Silk Road project. #### Week 4: Actors and Governance in the Arctic The final week focuses on the governance of the Arctic region. This structure provides learners with an understanding of the various stakeholders involved, including indigenous communities, nation-states, and international organizations. The interactions between Arctic governance and global governance frameworks are explored, emphasizing the interdependency of local and global actions. This week is essential for grasping how decisions made in the Arctic can have far-reaching consequences. ### Recommendations I wholeheartedly recommend the Global Arctic course for anyone interested in environmental science, geography, international relations, or sustainability. Its comprehensive approach offers a perfect blend of scientific, historical, and social perspectives, making it suitable for a range of learners—from students and educators to professionals in policy-making or conservation. This course unravels complex issues in an accessible manner and is enhanced by the engaging format and high-quality lectures. Participants will leave with a rich understanding of not just the Arctic but also the broader implications of climate change on a global scale, making it a must-take for environmentally conscious individuals looking to deepen their knowledge or catalyze action in their own communities. In conclusion, "Global Arctic" is more than just an academic endeavor; it serves as a call to appreciate the fragile beauty of the Arctic and the critical responsibility we hold in addressing climate change. Enroll today and join an essential discourse on one of the world's most pressing challenges!

Syllabus

Introduction to the MOOC

WEEK 1 EARTH SYSTEM DYNAMICS

This first week aims to overlook the different effects of the climate change in the Arctic. And vice-versa, we will introduce and evaluate the effects of a warmer Arctic on the rest of the planet. Besides, lectures will raise consequences on the biodiversity and negative outcomes with pollutants in the Arctic region.

WEEK 2 Arctic resources and the quest for them

In this second week, lecturers will expose various types of Arctic resources. Indeed, this week will highlight different resources exploited (fisheries, mining and so on) and the rush for new ones including tourism and O&G.

WEEK 3 The evolving image and significance of the Arctic from early colonization to the ultimate industrial frontier

This third week will tackle historical perception of the Arctic in the frame of the Anthropocene era. From early colonization under the Viking rule until the Chinese Polar Silk Road project, lectures will guide you through this evolving and transforming image and significance to the world.

WEEK 4 Actors and governance in the Arctic

Lectures in this fourth week will introduce the different stakeholders shaping the Arctic governance. Overall, lecturers will highlight the interdependency between the Arctic and the global governance and how it interact each other.