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University of Leeds

Environmental Challenges: Human Impact in the Natural Environment

University of Leeds via FutureLearn

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Overview

Complex patterns in ecology are not always causal and predictable. Populations have their own dynamics that can be independent of external environmental conditions. In this course we look at the way that natural systems are organised; although living systems are complex, there are also some fairly constant patterns and relationships.

This course explores three approaches to the causality and dynamics of environmental systems, and how humans are involved and affected by these systems world-wide. It also includes an introduction to correlation and the limitations of statistical testing.

The course is suitable for anyone with a general interest in nature and environmental decision-making; no previous knowledge or experience is required.

If you are working in environmental management, or wish to learn more about it, this course is designed to support you as a professional. By completing all aspects of the course you will have achieved 14 hours of CPD time.

Syllabus

  • The principles of human impact in the natural environment
    • Welcome
    • Causality
    • Internal drivers vs external dynamics
    • The mathematics of human ecology
    • Revision
    • Summary
  • Applying the principles
    • About week 2
    • Case study: ecocentric vs anthropocentric
    • Discussion: the mathematics of natural dynamics
    • Focusing on – statistics and correlation
    • Revision
    • Summary

Taught by

Jon Lovett

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Reviews

4.8 rating, based on 10 Class Central reviews

Start your review of Environmental Challenges: Human Impact in the Natural Environment

  • Anonymous
    Great, informative course. Learnt lots about ecology and the environment. Helpful and useful for the future
  • Anonymous
    This is my very first time environmental challenge course and I know that I'm not deserve with this class as I'm completely lack of even basic knowledge but I want to try. This class is my first step .
  • Anonymous
    Very thought provoking. I particularly enjoyed the multi-faceted manner of presenting different ideas. I would recommend this course to anyone interested in environmental issues.
  • Anonymous
    Fascinating course, but no other participants! The conversations are an essential part, and without them there is little motivation.
  • Patricia Devlin
    This course is very engaging. It is well presented and accessible at any level from beginner to tertiary graduate in this academic area. The subject matter includes resources extension and follow up. the discussion questions and comments stimulate thought and reflection. The material ranges from biodiversity to meteorology, sociology and even statistics. Very satisfying learning experience.

    I'm moving on through the programme of Environmental Challenges. As an aging grannie, the learning keeps me, not just informed about our reality, but motivated to act for climate justice. Thanks.
  • Anonymous
    Superb course, highly recommended, well put together, great information and well presented. This course has given me knowledge and terminology to help with the work in our village climate group. By using some of this information I have been able to put forward ideas for reducing our carbon footprint and helping the disadvantaged. I hope that even in our small space on this planet some lives will be transformed thanks to you.
  • Anonymous
    I found this course held plenty of interest for myself with well presented topics. There were many instances of insight that deepened my learning and understanding around perspectives of environmental management based on human reasoning. The application of environmental management is also extended to included contemporary thoughts and approaches.
  • Anonymous
    Really pleased with the course. I was worried I didn’t have the right scientific background but I have coped and enjoyed the challenge. I’m pleased it is closely related to the climate crisis, at least the comments are. It feels as though I’m involved in ethical issues which I didn’t expect. Thanks
  • Anonymous
    Excellent ,well paced, good balance of ideas, concepts and means of presentation, so that I remained engaged and neither switched off or overwhelmed. Timely and accessible.
  • Profile image for Gurayy Gariiroo
    Gurayy Gariiroo
    when i see this course is important for me i would like to learn and increase my knowledge and become good
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