Rice University

Introduction to Biology: Ecology

Scott Solomon

Instructor: Scott Solomon

8,064 already enrolled

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8

(100 reviews)

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
Approx. 19 hours
Learn at your own pace
99%
Most learners liked this course
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8

(100 reviews)

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
Approx. 19 hours
Learn at your own pace
99%
Most learners liked this course

What you'll learn

  • How interdependent every living thing is; how people are impacting the natural world

Details to know

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Assessments

13 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Introduction to Biology: Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 9 modules in this course

What's included

2 videos3 readings1 discussion prompt

In this module, we will learn about the goals of the science of ecology and some of the ways in which ecology can be applied to help people.

What's included

2 videos4 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt

In this module, we will Learn about the factors that influence the distribution of life on Earth, some of the approaches that ecologists use to study ecological communities, and how the concept of an ecological niche can be used to understand the outcome of competition between species.

What's included

7 videos10 readings3 assignments1 peer review2 discussion prompts

In this module, we will learn about the development of the equilibrium theory of island biogeography and how it can be applied both to real islands and to protected areas.

What's included

3 videos4 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

In this module, we will learn about the various ways that species interact with one another, the role of keystone species in natural ecosystems, and how disturbances like floods and fires affect ecological communities.

What's included

6 videos8 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt

In this module, we will learn how ecologists estimate population sizes of wild animals, the factors that affect population size in animals and people, and the history and recent trends in human population growth.

What's included

4 videos7 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt

In this module, we will learn about the major threats to living species and the impacts of habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change on the natural world.

What's included

5 videos8 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt

In this module, we will learn about the current declines in biodiversity and how biodiversity loss affects ecosystems and people.

What's included

6 videos8 readings1 assignment2 discussion prompts

What's included

1 video1 peer review

Instructor

Instructor ratings
4.8 (36 ratings)
Scott Solomon
Rice University
3 Courses10,854 learners

Offered by

Rice University

Recommended if you're interested in Environmental Science and Sustainability

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4.8

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