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Introduction to Algae

Approx. 10 hours to complete

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Course Summary

This course offers a comprehensive overview of algae, covering their biology, ecology, applications, and potential as a biofuel source.

Key Learning Points

Learn about the diversity of algae and their ecological roles
Explore the potential of algae as a source of biofuels and other valuable products
Discover cutting-edge research in the field of algae biotechnology

Learning Outcomes

Understand the biology and ecology of algae
Appreciate the potential of algae as a source of biofuels and other valuable products
Gain knowledge on the latest research and developments in the field of algae biotechnology

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

Basic knowledge of biology
Interest in alternative energy sources

Course Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Course Format

Self-paced
Video lectures
Quizzes and assignments

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Introduction to Bioenergy
Renewable Energy and Green Building Entrepreneurship

Related Education Paths

Notable People in This Field

Dr. Mark J. Scearce
Dr. Maria Rebolledo-Vieyra

Related Books

Description

This course was produced by the Algae Technology Educational Consortium and UC San Diego with funding from the Algae Foundation, the National Renewable Energy Lab, and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Algae are an extremely diverse group of organisms that can be found in almost every ecosystem on the planet, and they play an essential role for life on earth. They are little bio-factories that use the process of photosynthesis to create chemical compounds that we can utilize for food, feed, medicine, and even energy. We’ve brought together some of foremost algae experts from industry and academia to teach you the fundamentals of algae. This course will cover what algae are, why they are important, and why we are interested in them for both their environmental benefit, as well as their use for products. You will also explore the vast diversity of algae including the characteristics and applications of some of the main types of algae that are in commercial use today. Later you will learn about algal ecology and how interactions with environment, including pests and predators, affect algal productivity. And finally you will examine the processes of algae bio-manufacturing including production processes, as well as some of the products, benefits, and challenges that impact our ability to make commercially viable products from algae.

Outline

Algae Basics
Welcome to Introduction to Algae
What are Algae?
Macroalgae (Seaweed) Historical Utilization
The Evolution and Diversity of Algae
Algae as a Photosynthetic Organism
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Algae Basics Quiz

Algal Diversity
Green Algae
Red Algae
Brown Algae and Diatoms
Macroalgae (Seaweed)
Cyanobacteria
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Algae Diversity Quiz

Algal Ecology
Ecology of Algae: Friends, Enemies, or Neighbors?
Algae Predators, Pests, and Pathogens
Algal Predators, Pest, and Pathogens II: Detection and Control
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Algal Ecology Quiz

Algae Biomanufacturing Part 1
Algae as an Industrial Organism
Production of Phototrophic Microalgae
Production of Heterotrophic Microalgae
Macroalgae (Seaweed) Farming
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Algae Biomanufacturing Part 1 Quiz

Algae Biomanufacturing Part 2
Measuring Culture Growth
Nutrient Utilization and Recycling
Harvesting and Dewatering
Post-Harvest Processing
Chemistry for Bio-based Materials
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Algae Biomanufacturing Part 2 Quiz

Summary of User Reviews

The Algae course on Coursera has received positive feedback from many users. The course covers various topics related to algae and its applications in a comprehensive manner. Users find the course engaging and informative, with excellent video lectures and interactive quizzes. One key aspect that many users thought was good is the practical knowledge and hands-on experience gained through the course's lab activities.

Pros from User Reviews

Comprehensive coverage of various topics related to algae
Engaging and informative video lectures
Interactive quizzes to test understanding
Hands-on experience gained through lab activities
Practical knowledge applicable in real-life situations

Cons from User Reviews

Some users found the course content too basic
The course may not be suitable for those without a background in biology
The pace of the course may be too fast for some users
Limited opportunities for interaction with instructors or peers
The course does not provide certification or accreditation

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