Free online courseBiology

Course Description

The Biology course offers an extensive deep dive into the foundational theories and practices of biology. Spanning over 27 hours and 28 minutes, this comprehensive course has earned an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars, indicating its high quality and the satisfaction of its learners.

Categorized under Basic Studies, specifically focusing on Biology, this course is designed to enrich your understanding of the principles that define life and its processes. It covers a wide range of topics that are essential to building a solid foundation in biological sciences.

The course begins with an exploration of evolutionary concepts, detailing how selection, inheritance, and history shape the life forms we observe today. Key mechanisms such as natural selection and genetic drift are explained, shedding light on how populations evolve over time. The curriculum delves into basic transmission genetics and the complexities of genetic variation, maintaining a balance between theoretical underpinnings and practical examples.

As you progress, the course addresses the importance of development in evolution, exploring how changes at the genetic level manifest in the physical world. Special attention is given to various forms of evolution, including adaptive and neutral evolution, and the ways in which selection influences genetic composition. The fascinating aspects of sex evolution, genomic conflict, and sexual selection are examined, providing insights into the complexity of reproductive strategies and behaviors across species.

In addition to genetic and evolutionary principles, the course also highlights key events in Earth's history, such as major geological activities and the fossil record, which offer context to the evolution of life. Phylogeny and systematics are discussed to help learners understand the tree of life and the relationships among different organisms. Techniques like comparative methods, including the use of trees, maps, and traits, are introduced to enhance analytical skills in evolutionary biology.

Environmental biology is another crucial component, addressing climate's impact on the distribution of life, interactions with the physical environment, population dynamics, and interspecific competition. Topics like island biogeography and invasive species provide a broader ecological perspective. The course covers the essential flows of energy and matter within ecosystems, factors driving biodiversity, and the ecological and evolutionary aspects of species interactions.

With an extensive section on evolutionary game theory, mating systems, and parental care, the course offers a glimpse into the decision-making processes within the animal kingdom. It also discusses economic decisions in foraging, alternative breeding strategies, and the balance between selfishness and altruism in the natural world.

Overall, the Biology class stands out as a thorough and engaging introduction to biology, suitable for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the natural world and the evolutionary processes that sustain it. Whether you are a biology novice or someone looking to brush up on foundational concepts, this course promises to provide valuable knowledge and insights.