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.
Skills you'll gain
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
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Learner reviews
4.7
49 reviews
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Showing 3 of 49
SR
4
Reviewed on Jul 17, 2020
Final test was harder and more specific than expected. If the question has more than one answer, it really needs to say "Mark all that apply".
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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