Explore

Paleontology: Theropod Dinosaurs and the Origin of Birds

Approx. 9 hours to complete

Save Course

Go to Course

Course Summary

Explore the fascinating world of theropod dinosaurs and their evolutionary transformation into modern birds in this course. Learn about their anatomy, behavior, ecology, and more.

Key Learning Points

Understand the evolution of theropod dinosaurs into modern birds
Examine the anatomy, behavior, and ecology of theropods
Explore the diversity of birds and their adaptations

Learning Outcomes

Identify the key features of theropod dinosaurs and their relationship to modern birds
Analyze the behavior and ecology of theropods
Understand the diversity of birds and their adaptations

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

Basic knowledge of biology
Interest in dinosaurs and birds

Course Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Course Format

Online
Self-paced

Similar Courses

Dinosaurs: A Comprehensive Course
Evolution: A Course for Educators

Notable People in This Field

Brian Switek
David Attenborough

Related Books

Description

Paleontology: Theropod Dinosaurs and the Origin of Birds is a five-lesson course teaching a comprehensive overview of the origins of birds. This course examines the anatomy, diversity, and evolution of theropod dinosaurs in relation to the origin of birds. Students explore various hypotheses for the origin of flight. Watch a preview of the course here: https://uofa.ualberta.ca/courses/paleontology-theropod-dinosaurs

Outline

Bird Anatomy
Course Preview Video
1.1 The Link Between Birds and Dinosaurs
1.2 Bird Anatomy
Instructional Staff
Meet Your Presenter: Scott Persons
Course Glossary
Acknowledgements
Interactive Learning Objects
Lesson 1 Course Notes
Module 1 Assessment (Graded)

Survey of Non-Avian Theropods
2.1 Triassic Theropods
2.2 Jurassic Theropods
2.3 Cretaceous Theropods
Lesson 2 Course Notes
Module 2 Assessment (Graded)

Coelurosaurs I
3.1 Early Coelurosaurs - Part 1
3.1 Early Coelurosaurs - Part 2
3.1 Early Coelurosaurs - Part 3
3.2 Bird-Like Traits in Coelurosaurs
Lesson 3 Course Notes
Module 3 Assessment (Graded)

Coelurosaurs II
4.1 The Dinosaur Renaissance
4.2 Bird-Like Characteristics - Part 1
4.2 Bird-Like Characteristics - Part 2
Lesson 4 Course Notes
Module 4 Assessment (Graded)

The Avian World
5.1 Understanding the Evolution of Birds
5.2 Survival of the Neornithes - Part 1
5.2 Survival of the Neornithes - Part 2
Lesson 5 Course Notes
Module 5 Assessment (Graded)

Summary of User Reviews

The Theropods to Birds course on Coursera is highly recommended by many users. The course explains the evolution of theropod dinosaurs into modern-day birds. Learners found the course engaging and informative.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

Engaging and informative content

Pros from User Reviews

Expert instructors who are knowledgeable and passionate about the subject
Interactive quizzes and assignments that help reinforce learning
Access to high-quality course materials and resources
Flexible schedule that allows learners to study at their own pace
Excellent value for money compared to other online courses

Cons from User Reviews

Some users found the course content to be too technical or advanced
Limited opportunities for learners to interact with each other and with instructors
Course materials could be more visually engaging and interactive
Some technical issues with the online platform affected the learning experience for some users
Course could benefit from more practical exercises or hands-on learning opportunities