The Dynamic Earth: A Course for Educators

  • 4.7
Approx. 8 hours to complete

Course Summary

Explore the history of planet Earth and its place in the universe with the Earth Science course from the American Museum of Natural History.

Key Learning Points

  • Learn about the Earth's history, structure, and systems
  • Discover the impact of human activity on the planet
  • Explore the latest research on climate change and its effects

Related Topics for further study


Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the history and structure of planet Earth
  • Explain the impact of human activity on the planet
  • Analyze the latest research on climate change and its effects

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

  • Basic knowledge of science
  • Interest in Earth Science and the environment

Course Difficulty Level

Beginner

Course Format

  • Online
  • Self-paced

Similar Courses

  • Environmental Science and Sustainability
  • Geology and Earth Science
  • Climate Change Science and Solutions

Related Education Paths


Notable People in This Field

  • Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Jane Goodall

Related Books

Description

The AMNH course The Dynamic Earth: A Course for Educators provides students with an overview of the origin and evolution of the Earth. Informed by the recently released Next Generation Science Standards, this course examines geological time scales, radiometric dating, and how scientists “read the rocks.” We will explore dramatic changes in the Earth over the last 4 billion years, including how the evolution of life on Earth has affected its atmosphere. In addition to looking at geology on a global scale, participants will take to their own backyards to explore and share their local geologic history. Course participants will bring their understanding of the dynamic Earth - along with content resources, discussion questions, and assignments - into their own teaching.

Outline

  • Introduction & The Mystery of Geologic Time
  • Course Overview
  • Introduction to the Course
  • How Zircons Have Revolutionized Understanding of Early Earth
  • The Rate of Decay
  • Syllabus
  • Resources
  • About This Course
  • Using Radiometric Dating to Determine the Age of Rocks and Mineral
  • "Reading" a Rock to Get Its Age
  • Module One Quiz
  • Evolution of the Atmosphere
  • Evolution of Early Earth's Atmosphere
  • Banded Iron Formation
  • Stromatolites
  • Teaching with the Next Generation Science Standards: Part 1
  • Teaching with the Next Generation Science Standards: Part 2
  • Local Geology Assignment: Part 1
  • Local Geology Assignment: Part 2
  • Early Life
  • Origin of Earth's Atmosphere
  • Module Two Quiz
  • Plate Tectonics: Mountain Building
  • The Structure of Mountain Belts: The Swiss Alps
  • Ductility of Rocks
  • Marble Deformation
  • Scientists at Work: Mountain Building
  • Addressing Student Misconceptions When Teaching Plate Tectonics
  • How Rocks Flow
  • Mantle Convection and Plate Tectonics
  • Module Three Quiz
  • Plate Tectonics: Earthquakes
  • Earthquake Risk
  • Learning & Teaching with the Teaching Case
  • Part One: Background
  • Part Two: Data Collection
  • Part Three: Results
  • Part Four: Beyond Tectonics
  • Closing Thoughts
  • Earthquake Risk in Bangladesh
  • Resources
  • Opportunities for Educators
  • Support AMNH
  • Module Four Quiz

Summary of User Reviews

Discover the wonders of our planet with Earth: Origins. This course has received high praise from users and is highly recommended for anyone interested in learning about the history of Earth and its evolution.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

The course provides an in-depth understanding of Earth's history and evolution.

Pros from User Reviews

  • Engaging and informative course content
  • Clear and concise explanations of complex concepts
  • Excellent visuals and graphics enhance learning experience
  • Flexible and self-paced learning options for busy individuals

Cons from User Reviews

  • Some users found the course to be too basic and lacking in detail
  • Limited interaction with instructors and other students
  • No hands-on or practical activities to reinforce learning
  • Not suitable for those looking for advanced or specialized knowledge
English
Available now
Approx. 8 hours to complete
Edmond Mathez, Ph.D., Ro Kinzler, Ph.D.
American Museum of Natural History
Coursera

Instructor

Edmond Mathez, Ph.D.

  • 4.7 Raiting
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