This course surveys the diversity, structure and functioning of California’s ecosystems through time and the ways they have influenced and responded to human activities and stewardship. Topics include ecosystem drivers such as climate, soils, and land use history; human and ecological prehistory of the state; comparative marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystem dynamics; and managed ecosystems such as range, fisheries and agriculture in California. The course also emphasizes important skills to understand as a scientist or consumer of scientific information, including data collection, natural history, and writing.
Ecosystems of California
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.7
(49 reviews)
Beginner level
No prior experience required
11 hours to complete
3 weeks at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Describe the characteristic components of California’s major ecosystems and the processes that give rise to and maintain this character.
Describe the tradeoffs between the human benefits derived from California’s ecosystems and their degradation.
Analyze and evaluate tradeoffs between the human benefits derived from California’s ecosystems and their degradation.
Details to know
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Assessments
5 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 5 modules in this course
What's included
9 videos1 reading1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
9 videos1 assignment
What's included
9 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
8 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
1 video1 reading1 assignment1 peer review
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.9 (12 ratings)
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Basic Science
University of California San Diego
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
University of California San Diego
Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo
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Learner reviews
4.7
49 reviews
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Showing 3 of 49
DM
5
Reviewed on Oct 4, 2020
Amazing course! I learned so much, and had a lot of fun. Written questions were valuable, and extended my thinking. The final project was so much fun!
L
5
Reviewed on May 31, 2020
I learned so much in this class! Erika Zavaleta's video field trips and lectures taught me so much about the place I live in, and it's amazing that it can all be accessed for free!
JQ
5
Reviewed on Oct 17, 2017
INTERESTING AND ENJOYABLE COURSE. TIMELY, TOO, AS I PLAN ON DOING THE PACIFIC COAST TRAIL THIS SPRING. THANKS SO MUCH!
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Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
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