Science and Engineering of Climate Change

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/science-and-engineering-of-climate-change

Introduction

### Course Review: Science and Engineering of Climate Change on Coursera Climate change is no longer just a pressing environmental issue; it's a pressing concern that touches every aspect of society, from economics to technology to social justice. The course “Science and Engineering of Climate Change” offered on Coursera addresses this complex and urgent topic through a comprehensive lens. This review will detail what you can expect from the course, its structure, content, and who could benefit the most from it. #### Course Overview The Science and Engineering of Climate Change is designed to provide learners with an in-depth understanding of the multifaceted nature of climate change. The course emphasizes not only the scientific basis of climate change but also explores its social implications, technological responses, and financial considerations. #### Key Questions Addressed Throughout the course, learners will grapple with essential questions that drive the current discourse on climate change, including: - Are we sure that the climate is changing? - How confident are we that climate change is anthropogenic (human-caused)? - Are we heading for a climate catastrophe? These questions underscore the course’s commitment to fostering critical thinking and encouraging a nuanced understanding of the challenges posed by climate change. #### Syllabus Breakdown The course is structured around four main modules, each covering a crucial aspect of climate change: 1. **Current Climate Change in Context**: This module lays the groundwork by discussing the current state of climate change, including historical data and trends. Learners will gain insights into the evidence supporting climate change and its global implications. 2. **Modelling Climate Change**: In this module, participants will delve into the methods used to model climate change scenarios. It helps learners understand the predictive capabilities of various models and their role in forming climate policy. 3. **Technologies to Control CO2 Concentration**: This module focuses on technological innovations aimed at mitigating climate change. Participants will explore carbon capture and storage technologies and other strategies for controlling greenhouse gas concentrations. 4. **Non-Fossil Energy Sources**: Finally, this module introduces learners to renewable energy options. It evaluates the effectiveness and viability of non-fossil energy sources in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and combating climate change. #### Who Should Enroll? This course is ideal for a diverse audience, including: - **Students** in environmental science, engineering, or policy fields, looking to deepen their understanding of climate issues. - **Professionals** in industries affected by climate change, such as energy, agriculture, and urban planning, who seek to adapt and innovate in response to these challenges. - **General learners** interested in understanding one of the most critical issues of our time and willing to make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives based on scientific understanding. #### Conclusion and Recommendation The Science and Engineering of Climate Change course on Coursera provides a robust examination of the scientific and technological dimensions of climate change. Its thoughtfully structured modules not only inform but also provoke critical thinking—a necessity for anyone concerned about the planet’s future. I highly recommend this course for anyone eager to grasp the complexities of climate change and engage in meaningful dialogue and action towards solutions. Whether you aim to bolster your academic credentials, enhance your professional skill set, or simply seek to understand the intricacies of climate change, this course promises to equip you with the knowledge you need to contribute to this vital conversation.

Syllabus

Current Climate Change in Context