In this course we will examine the incredible variety of life that inhabits this planet including microorganisms, plants, and animals. For each of the major groups we’ll learn about their characteristics, functions, and how they came into existence as well as some of the roles they play in the natural world, and how they’re relevant to people. We’ll also take a close look at us humans and consider what we know about our origins and what might become of us in the future.
Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity
Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity
This course is part of Introduction to Biology: Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity Specialization
Instructor: Scott Solomon
3,434 already enrolled
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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.9
(49 reviews)
Beginner level
Recommended experience
22 hours to complete
3 weeks at 7 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Origins, characteristics, and functions of major groups of life; the roles they play in the natural world; and how they are related to people
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
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Assessments
16 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 8 modules in this course
What's included
2 videos3 readings1 discussion prompt
What's included
5 videos7 readings3 assignments1 discussion prompt
In this module, we will learn about the major groups of prokaryotes, the role of the human microbiome, the discovery of antibiotics, and how bacteria develop antibiotic resistance.
What's included
4 videos5 readings3 assignments
In this module, we will learn about the differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes, the major groups of protists, plants, and fungi and how they affect people and other organisms.
What's included
5 videos7 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt1 plugin
In this module, we will learn about the evolutionary origins of animals, as well as some of the characteristics and importance of invertebrate animals such as Cnidarians, Rotifers, Mollusks, and Arthropods.
What's included
7 videos8 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt1 plugin
In this module, we will learn about the major groups of fish, reptiles, amphibians, and birds.
What's included
7 videos9 readings4 assignments
In this module, we will learn about the major groups of mammals, including humans and other primates.
What's included
7 videos8 readings2 assignments2 discussion prompts
What's included
1 video1 peer review
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.9 (17 ratings)Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Environmental Science and Sustainability
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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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When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
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