This learning object is an exceptionally well-produced YouTube video (12:51). Entitled Human Activities that Threaten Biodiversity," this video is one in a larger series (on biodiversity) that can be found at the following link: http://bit.ly/cas-khan
The video is introductory in nature with engaging animations to illustrate key points. The video was developed in 2014, and it explores the impact of human population growth on species richness.
Type of Material:
Presentation / YouTube Video
Recommended Uses:
This video can be a prerequisite to a discussion on the relationship of human behavior on the environment. Assignments regarding how to change human behavior could follow.
The video can be shown in class or linked to an online learning module in a course website.
Technical Requirements:
Only an updated browser is required to view this video. Closed captions are provided alongside the video, and graphics are shown on the video.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
The video answers the question, Why is biodiversity threatened? Viewers will learn about concepts and terms such as Malthusian population theory, carrying capacity of the Earth, and species richness. Viewers also will learn about local and global human-mediated causes of biodiversity. Local impacts are emphasized.
Target Student Population:
College General Ed, K12
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
No prerequisite knowledge or skills are needed.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
This 13 minute video explains clearly the portions of biodiversity that will be covered: local issues of land use changes, pollution, and resource exploitation. The video offers a well-organized, well-presented overview of the human-mediated causes of decline in biodiversity. It would be an appropriate accompaniment to a lecture or learning module in conservation psychology.
The need for research and discussion of this area is clear.
Those without any background will be able to follow the presentation.
Concerns:
While the video provides a clear overview, additional details such as sources for the information provided would have strengthened the argument. Including a list of resources and/or references is recommended at the end of the presentation.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
Discussion of what reduces biodiversity is addressed clearly.
The presentation is organized and references additional videos for the fourth local cause and global causes of biodiversity.
The video offers a comprehensible introduction to both historical (Malthusian) and current perspectives on the deleterious impact(s) of population growth on biodiversity. Instructors could easily incorporate the video into a lecture or class discussion.
Concerns:
Instructors will want to develop discussion/assignment questions to accompany the video if it is used in class.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
YouTube video plays from any browser or the app. The video is professionally produced with interesting animations to accompany the narration.
A link to additional videos referenced is included.
Closed captioning is available (in English and Bulgarian).
Concerns:
None.
Creative Commons:
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