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.
This course is part of the Exploring Our Responses to Climate Change Specialization
Offered By
Exploring Our Responses to Climate Change SpecializationUniversity of Colorado BoulderAbout this Course
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Beginner Level
Approx. 6 hours to complete
English
Subtitles: English
What you will learn
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
Shareable Certificate
Earn a Certificate upon completion
100% online
Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.
Course 1 of 3 in the
Flexible deadlines
Reset deadlines in accordance to your schedule.
Beginner Level
Approx. 6 hours to complete
English
Subtitles: English
Offered by
University of Colorado Boulder
CU-Boulder is a dynamic community of scholars and learners on one of the most spectacular college campuses in the country. As one of 34 U.S. public institutions in the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), we have a proud tradition of academic excellence, with five Nobel laureates and more than 50 members of prestigious academic academies.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
2 hours to complete
The Climate System and Climate Change
Climate change is real. Scientists agree that human activities are causing the climate to change. Warming will continue in the 21st century, and the amount of warming will be determined by our emissions of greenhouse gases.
2 hours to complete
5 videos (Total 48 min), 2 readings, 1 quiz
5 videos
Climate Backgrounder6m
It's Real and Scientists Agree10m
It's Us13m
Future Projections14m
2 readings
Advancing the Science of Climate Change40m
Fourth National Climate Assessment, Vol. II10m
1 practice exercise
Quiz 1.130m
2 hours to complete
Impacts of Climate Change
The net impact of climate change on ecosystems, infrastructure, and communities is expected to be negative. Many impacts are already occurring, and we expect future warming to exacerbate their effects.
2 hours to complete
6 videos (Total 61 min), 1 reading, 1 quiz
6 videos
Physical Changes: Temperature, Precipitation, and Hydrology14m
Sea Level Rise and Ocean Acidification10m
Impacts on Ecosystems9m
Impacts to Infrastructure9m
Human Dimensions of Impacts14m
1 reading
Fourth National Climate Assessment10m
1 practice exercise
Quiz 1.230m
3 hours to complete
Attitudes About Climate Change
To stay informed about climate change, it is important to know where to get credible information. It’s also important to understand how scientific information is unique from other types of knowledge. Also, it can be helpful to recognize that others’ opinions on climate are heavily influenced by political affiliation. When engaging with others on climate, information needs to be tailored to take into account your audiences concerns and world views.
3 hours to complete
6 videos (Total 45 min), 2 readings, 2 quizzes
6 videos
Credible Sources8m
How is Science Information Unique?10m
Talking to Others About Climate Change8m
Talking to Others About Climate Change, Part 26m
Interview with Heidi Roop9m
2 readings
Global Warming's Six Americas,10m
Climate in the News: Quiz Instructions10m
1 practice exercise
Climate in the News30m
About the Exploring Our Responses to Climate Change Specialization
In this specialization, learners will gain familiarity with the key information sources that constitute the scientific consensus on the human causes of climate change and its associated impacts. We will explore the options for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for impacts, drawing heavily from the Fourth US National Climate Assessment. The ultimate goal of the specialization is to empower learners to formulate their own plans for reducing emissions and adapting to future impacts, appropriate for their respective households, communities, and workplaces.
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