Online Paleoanthropology
ASM 246 - Human Origins
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Overview
In this course, you will be guided through an exploration of the scientific evidence for the evolution of humans and our fossil relatives, and humankind’s place in the natural world. This includes an introduction to evolutionary theory, an overview of the hominin fossil record and what that record teaches us about our place in nature. Dr. Donald Johanson, a world-renowned paleoanthropologist who found the skeleton known as Lucy will present an exciting in-depth exploration of paleoanthropological field research from his unique perspective.
View syllabusCourse prerequisites and requirements
To be successful in this course, we recommend English language fluency and computer literacy. We also encourage you to make sure your laptop or desktop computer meets the technical requirements.
Quick facts
Next start date:
Jan. 14, 2025 (8 weeks)
- Credits: 3
- Length: 8 weeks
- Cost: $25 + $400
What you’ll learn
- Outline the nature of science and explain how scientific research is conducted
- Identify humans’ place in the natural world from taxonomic/phylogenetic perspectives
- Define the role of paleoanthropologists in human origins research
- Identify how paleoanthropologists use the scientific method to formulate hypotheses and strategically conduct research
- Articulate differences between scientific evidence for human evolution and non-scientific, non-testable, explanations for human origins
What to expect in class
Video and audio lectures, readings, quizzes, midterm exam, final exam, interactive mastery exercises, discussion boards, enrichment videos, and other resources
Exams and grading
25%
Content Mastery (7)
30%
Quizzes (8)
15%
Midterm Exam
30%
Final Exam
Transcript
This course appears on your transcript identically to how it appears on the transcript of an enrolled ASU student who has taken the course on one of ASU’s campuses. Course attendance dates will be listed on your transcript. An on-demand course will appear on your transcript in the session you complete the course.
This course satisfies 3 credit hours toward the SOBE: Social and Behavioral Sciences General Studies requirement at Arizona State University. It is strongly encouraged that you consult with your institution of choice to determine how these credits will be applied to their degree requirements prior to transferring your credit.
Faculty and course staff
Donald C.
Johanson
Founding Director and Virginia M Ullman Chair in Human Origins,
Institute of Human Origins
Arizona State University
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Rutger
Jansma
Faculty Associate,
School of Human Evolution and Social Change
Arizona State University
Sara
Marsteller
Associate Teaching Professor,
School of Human Evolution and Social Change
Arizona State University
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