Ecology: Ecosystem Dynamics and Conservation
- 4.8
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Course Summary
This course provides an understanding of ecology and conservation through a comprehensive study of ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation strategies.Key Learning Points
- Learn about the interconnectedness of different species and their environment
- Gain insights into conservation strategies to protect and preserve ecosystems
- Understand the impact of human activities on the environment and ways to mitigate them
Related Topics for further study
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the complexities of ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity
- Develop strategies for conservation and preservation of ecosystems
- Evaluate the impact of human activities on the environment and identify ways to mitigate them
Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course
- Basic understanding of biology and environmental science
- Willingness to learn and engage in discussions
Course Difficulty Level
IntermediateCourse Format
- Online
- Self-paced
- Video Lectures
- Quizzes
- Discussions
Similar Courses
- Wildlife Conservation
- Sustainable Development
- Climate Change
Related Education Paths
Notable People in This Field
- Dr. Jane Goodall
- David Attenborough
Related Books
Description
This course is an introduction to ecology and ecosystem dynamics using a systems thinking lens. Through a case study on Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park, learners will explore how scientists study ecosystems, and investigate the complex array of factors that inform management efforts. At the end of the course, learners will be able to grapple with real-world conservation questions, such as whether an ecosystem can recover from anthropogenic disruption and what role humans can, and should, play in that recovery.
Outline
- Can an Ecosystem Recover?
- Introduction to the Course
- Introduction to Module One
- Africa's Savanna Ecosystems
- Syllabus
- Classroom Resources
- Course Credits
- Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park: Can an Ecosystem Recover?
- Introduction to Ecology
- Introduction to Biodiversity
- Introduction to Systems--and Systems Thinking
- Module One: What have you learned?
- How Do We Study Populations?
- Introduction to Module Two
- Modeling Population and Species Interactions Holiday Lecture
- Surveying Ant Diversity in Gorongosa National Park
- How do we Study a Population--and Why? Part I: Population Dynamics
- How do we Study a Population--and Why? Part II: Modeling Population Growth
- Module Two: What have you learned?
- How Do Species Coexist?
- Introduction to Module Three
- How Species Coexist
- Some Animals Are More Equal Than Others: Keystone Species and Trophic Cascades
- Communities as Ecological Networks
- Communities and the Interaction Between Species
- Community Structure and Dynamics
- Module Three: What have you learned?
- How is an Ecosystem a System?
- Introduction to Module Four
- Climate Stress and Coastal Food Webs
- Analyzing Patterns in a Savanna Landscape
- Flow of Energy and Matter in an Ecosystem
- Ecosystem Services, Functioning, and Resilience
- Module Four: What have you learned?
- Can an Ecosystem Recover?
- Introduction to Module Five
- Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems
- Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation: Looking Ahead
- Biocultural Approaches to Conservation
- The Anthropocene
- Conservation Today and Looking Ahead
- Gorongosa: What Does the Future Look Like?
- Module Five: What have you learned?
Summary of User Reviews
Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course
Many users appreciated the in-depth coverage of conservation biology in the coursePros from User Reviews
- Great content that covers a wide range of topics
- Engaging lectures with clear explanations
- Interactive assignments and quizzes that reinforce learning
- Access to a community of learners and experts in the field
Cons from User Reviews
- Some users found the course to be too challenging, especially for beginners
- A few users complained about technical issues with the platform
- Some users felt that the course could have been more hands-on and practical
- A few users found the course to be too focused on North American examples and perspectives
Ana Luz Porzecanski
4.8 Raiting
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