Human earth shapers/ETHS101/About

=About Understanding Earth Shaping= Course Name: Understanding Earth Shaping (ETHS101)

Understanding Earth Shaping is one micro-course (short course) from a suite of Micro Courses developed by the University of Tasmania. This micro course, in particular, is part of the The Diploma of Sustainable Living. Which is a complete degree you could enrol in if you find yourself wanting to learn more about EarthShaping, Sustainability or the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals?

These micro-courses are 1/3 of an award course (full course) that a traditional student would enrol in at the University of Tasmania. These courses have been designed to allow learners to engage and sample learning from a higher education institution before deciding on their next step. Remembering all learning on OERu is free and assessments are always optional.

In this course, you will explore some of the dilemmas of Earth Shaping through the prisms of science, philosophy and governance.

What is the course about
More than ever before humans are a force of nature that can reprogram the planet. Understanding our abilities means that we are probably the first-ever species to consider limiting our activities. Overviews in science, philosophy and policies will equip participants to better understand our unique position and impacts as human-Earth shapers.

In this module we question:


 * How will the way humans formulate and apply international and national policies continue to drive change?
 * What are our own values regarding change?
 * How does that colour our perceptions of Earth Shaping? As our planet continues to face rapid changes?

As Earth Shapers you might enjoy this video as a thought-provoking introduction to our planet and some of the issues we are facing:

What is involved
There are 4 learning pathways each containing numerous resources and learning challenges designed to help you develop your thinking in relation to Humans as Earth Shapers. The Four learning pathways are:


 * 1) Earth Systems; Exploring the basic scientific structures and systems that make our planet
 * 2) Rock Records; Introduces philosophical principles and demonstrates the art of dating and rock reading.
 * 3) Earth Systems Exchange; Explores how Humans have contributed to changes in the Earth Systems
 * 4) Ecology and Evolution; Evolution in detail. Are we precipitating another mass extinction?

The micro course can be complete in 40 hours, including participation with the assessment task.

Prerequisites: Do I need them?
Anyone is free to participate in this course. An internet connection and basic web browsing skills are required.

Learners aiming to submit assessments for formal credit towards an academic qualification will need to meet the normal university admission requirements of the conferring institution (e.g. language proficiency and school leaving certificates etc.). Please see the assessment details tab.

Each micro-course can be studied independently.