What is Climate Change?

  • 4.9
Approx. 6 hours to complete

Course Summary

This course provides an introduction to the science of climate change and its impacts. It covers the basic science behind climate change, including the causes and consequences of global warming, as well as potential solutions to the problem.

Key Learning Points

  • Gain an understanding of the basic science behind climate change
  • Learn about the impacts of climate change on the environment and society
  • Explore potential solutions to the problem, including policy and technological solutions

Related Topics for further study


Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the basic science behind climate change and its impacts
  • Evaluate potential solutions to the problem of climate change
  • Communicate effectively about climate change to others

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

  • No prior knowledge of climate science required
  • Interest in understanding the science and policy of climate change

Course Difficulty Level

Introductory

Course Format

  • Online
  • Self-paced
  • Video lectures

Similar Courses

  • Climate Change Mitigation in Developing Countries
  • Sustainability, Society and You

Related Education Paths


Notable People in This Field

  • Greta Thunberg
  • Bill McKibben

Related Books

Description

In this course, learners will become familiar with the scientific evidence that demonstrates human-caused climate change. We will explore how greenhouse gases cause the Earth to warm, and why our recent warming is attributed to human activities. We will also discuss where our climate is headed, including anticipated future temperature, precipitation, and sea level. Learners will engage with the consequences of these changes on our ecosystems, infrastructure, and communities. We will also identify how political beliefs influence our attitudes about climate change, and apply that knowledge to become better climate communicators.

Knowledge

  • Identify the major components of the climate system
  • Explain the role of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions as the drivers of global climate change
  • Identify the primary physical and ecological impacts of climate change
  • Explain the unique process by which scientific information is produced

Outline

  • The Climate System and Climate Change
  • Module 1 Introduction
  • Climate Backgrounder
  • It's Real and Scientists Agree
  • It's Us
  • Future Projections
  • Advancing the Science of Climate Change
  • Fourth National Climate Assessment, Vol. II
  • Quiz 1.1
  • Impacts of Climate Change
  • Module 2 Introduction
  • Physical Changes: Temperature, Precipitation, and Hydrology
  • Sea Level Rise and Ocean Acidification
  • Impacts on Ecosystems
  • Impacts to Infrastructure
  • Human Dimensions of Impacts
  • Fourth National Climate Assessment
  • Quiz 1.2
  • Attitudes About Climate Change
  • Module 3 Introduction
  • Credible Sources
  • How is Science Information Unique?
  • Talking to Others About Climate Change
  • Talking to Others About Climate Change, Part 2
  • Interview with Heidi Roop
  • Global Warming's Six Americas,
  • Climate in the News: Quiz Instructions
  • Climate in the News

Summary of User Reviews

The course 'What is Climate Change?' on Coursera is highly recommended by users. The course provides a comprehensive overview of climate change and its impact on the environment. One key aspect that many users appreciated was the interactive nature of the course and the ability to engage with other students.

Pros from User Reviews

  • Comprehensive overview of climate change
  • Interactive and engaging course material
  • Opportunity to connect and collaborate with other students
  • Instructors are knowledgeable and responsive to student questions

Cons from User Reviews

  • Course material can be dense and technical
  • Some users found the pacing of the course to be too slow
  • Not enough emphasis on solutions or actions individuals can take to address climate change
English
Available now
Approx. 6 hours to complete
Joseph Casola
University of Colorado Boulder
Coursera

Instructor

Joseph Casola

  • 4.9 Raiting
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