Explore

The Changing Status and Perception of Animals

Approx. 5 hours to complete

Save Course

Go to Course

Course Summary

This course explores the different ways animals perceive the world around them and how their perception shapes their behavior. Topics covered include sensory systems, perception of colors and sounds, and communication among animals.

Key Learning Points

Gain an understanding of how animals perceive the world around them
Learn about the evolution and function of sensory systems
Explore the different ways animals communicate with each other

Learning Outcomes

Understand the different ways animals perceive the world
Gain knowledge of the function and evolution of sensory systems
Learn about animal communication and behavior

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

Interest in animal behavior and perception
Basic biology knowledge

Course Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Course Format

Online
Self-paced

Similar Courses

Animal Behaviour and Welfare
Animal Behaviour and Cognition
Introduction to Animal Behaviour

Related Education Paths

Notable People in This Field

Frans de Waal
Jane Goodall
David Attenborough

Related Books

Description

In this course, we explore how mainstream understandings of animals and human-animal relationships have changed in recent years. Module 1 focuses on the roles of animals in human physical health and psychological well being. Module 2 explores animal selfhood, particularly in light of their inability to use spoken language. Finally, Module 3 examines some of the collective efforts undertaken when the treatment or use of animals comes to be seen as inhumane, immoral, and worthy of ameliorative social action.

Knowledge

Describe components of the core self found in dogs and cats.
Summarize how research on emotions in animals challenges anthropocentrism
Distinguish between animal welfare and animal rights positions.
Evaluate studies of the influence of animals on human health and well being.

Outline

Healing
Course Introduction Video
Animals and Human Health Part I
Animals and Human Health Part II
Prison Animal Programs Part I
Prison Animal Programs Part II
Prison Animal Programs

Selfhood
Knowing Animal Selves Part I
Knowing Animal Selves Part II
Knowing Animal Selves Part III
Animal Emotions
Self and Emotions

Animal Rights
Animal Rights I
Animal Rights II
Animal Welfare
Keeping it Real: David Foster Wallace Consider the Lobster Essay
Consider the Lobster
Optional Readings

Summary of User Reviews

The course Perception of Animals on Coursera has received positive reviews from learners. Many users found the course to be informative and engaging, with a well-structured curriculum and knowledgeable instructors.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

The course content was well-organized and presented in an engaging manner.

Pros from User Reviews

Informative and engaging course content
Well-structured and easy to follow curriculum
Knowledgeable and helpful instructors
Interactive learning activities and quizzes
Access to additional resources and readings

Cons from User Reviews

Some users found the course to be too basic or introductory
Limited opportunities for peer interaction or discussion
Some technical difficulties with the platform or course materials
Not enough emphasis on certain animal species or topics
Length of the course may be too long for some learners

Recommended for you

Asian Environmental Humanities: Landscapes in Transition

You will learn about concepts of landscape in Asian religions, philosophy, social sciences, history and the arts and their reverberation in selected environmental projects in China, India and Japan....

Save Course