Invisible Worlds: Understanding the Natural Environment (FutureLearn)

Explore the connection between life and the Earth's invisible systems and gain new insights into the natural environment. Discover Earth's invisible systems and transform your understanding of the world. Given the current climate emergency, it’s increasingly important that we have a good understanding of Earth’s life support systems. We rely on these systems for fresh air, clean water, fertile soil, rich biodiversity and a stable climate. On this course, you’ll explore the natural systems we can’t see or feel, from microscopic creatures to gases.

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You’ll discover how life is shaped by and shapes these invisible worlds and explore the evolution of these systems and the impact humans have on it. As you explore the interconnectedness of everything, you’ll transform your understanding of the world.

What topics will you cover?

- Past Invisible: A time so long ago it’s hard to imagine: the evolution of the Earth’s life support system; the products and processes that are necessary for maintaining life.

- Vast Invisible: Natural systems and cycles (carbon, nitrogen, phosphate) so massive we can’t feel them: the bigger picture and you in the bigger picture.

- Small Invisible: Creatures so small we can’t see them: minions or masters of the universe? See how the smallest things underpin the biggest things; the life support systems.

- The Anthropocene era/effect: Since the small things have such a significant influence on the life support system, you won’t be surprised to see the huge effects we have had.

- Interconnections: The interconnectedness between life and the Earth’s environments at all scales.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

- Describe the fundamental science of the invisible worlds

- Understand how everything on Earth is interconnected

- Understand the past: the evolution of the planet and our life support system

- See yourself within the vast: the planetary cycles that we depend on

- Respect the small: the microbes that built and maintain the life support system

- Discuss human effects, and how to work towards a positive future

- Discuss the role played by art and exhibitions in science communication