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Ecosystems of California
  • Level Foundation
  • Duration 12 hours
  • Course by University of California, Santa Cruz
  • Offered by

About

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.

Modules

Introduction

    • 1 Videos
    • 1 Readings
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1 Videos

  • Ecosystems Intro

1 Readings

  • Syllabus

Biodiversity and Geomorphology

    • 2 Videos
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2 Videos

  • Biodiversity
  • Geomorphology and Soils

Climate

    • 2 Videos
    • 1 Discussion
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1 Discussions

  • Climate Types

2 Videos

  • Climate Transect
  • California's Climate

Land Use

    • 4 Videos
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4 Videos

  • Population and Land Use
  • Forestry
  • Agriculture
  • Urban

Statewide Patterns Quiz

    • 1 Assignment
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1 Assignment

  • Statewide Patterns

Coastal Dunes

    • 2 Videos
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2 Videos

  • Franklin Point Dunes
  • Younger Lagoon Dunes

Sandy Beaches

    • 2 Videos
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2 Videos

  • Beaches
  • Animal Tracking

Intertidal

    • 5 Videos
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5 Videos

  • Estuaries
  • Oceanography
  • Intertidal
  • Kelp Forests
  • Offshore

Marine Systems Quiz

    • 1 Assignment
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1 Assignment

  • Marine Systems

Montane & Alpine

    • 5 Videos
    • 1 Discussion
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1 Discussions

  • Fire

5 Videos

  • Montane Forests
  • Fire
  • Subalpine
  • Strip Bark
  • Alpine

Lakes

    • 3 Videos
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3 Videos

  • Lundy Lake
  • Lake Tahoe
  • Mono Lake

Deserts

    • 1 Videos
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1 Videos

  • Deserts

Mountains, Lakes, & Deserts Quiz

    • 1 Assignment
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1 Assignment

  • Mountains, Lakes, & Deserts

Rivers & Grasslands

    • 2 Videos
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2 Videos

  • Rivers
  • Grasslands

Chaparral & Sage

    • 3 Videos
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3 Videos

  • Jasper Ridge Chaparral
  • Fort Ord Chaparral
  • Coastal Sage

Woodlands, Forests, & Range

    • 3 Videos
    • 1 Discussion
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1 Discussions

  • Effects of Grazing

3 Videos

  • Oak Woodlands
  • Range
  • Northcoast Forests

Lowland Systems Quiz

    • 1 Assignment
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1 Assignment

  • Lowland Systems

Final Exam

    • 1 Videos
    • 1 Readings
    • 1 PeerReview
    • 1 Assignment
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1 Assignment

  • Final Exam

1 Peer Review

  • Using and Constructing Dichotomous Keys

1 Videos

  • Conclusion

1 Readings

  • Using a dichotomous key

Auto Summary

Discover the rich and diverse ecosystems of California with this foundational science and engineering course. Led by expert instructors from Coursera, this immersive program delves into the intricate dynamics of California's marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments. Over 720 minutes of engaging content, learners will explore key ecosystem drivers such as climate, soil composition, and historical land use, alongside the state's human and ecological prehistory. The course also covers the management of vital ecosystems like ranges, fisheries, and agricultural landscapes, providing a comprehensive understanding of both natural and human-influenced landscapes. Essential scientific skills, including data collection, natural history, and scientific writing, are woven throughout the curriculum to equip students with the tools necessary for both conducting and interpreting research. With flexible subscription options available through the Starter and Professional plans, this course is designed for anyone with an interest in environmental science, from curious beginners to those seeking to deepen their professional knowledge. Embark on this educational journey to better understand and appreciate the complexity and beauty of California's ecosystems.

Erika Zavaleta
Instructor

Erika Zavaleta