Climate change: a brief introduction

We hear and read about climate change every day. Yet it is hard to keep up and get the big picture. Join us to slow down and get a sense of how the problem of climate change has emerged, what is being done about it and what more needs doing.
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  • Start Date: 02 Oct 2025
    End Date: 09 Oct 2025
    Thu (Daytime): 12:45 - 14:45
    Online
    Location: Online
    Duration: 2 sessions (over -2 weeks)
    Course Code: HS233
    Tutors:  Gary Retallick
    Full fee £39.00 Senior fee £31.00 Concession £25.00
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In stock
SKU
236041
Full fee £39.00 Senior fee £31.00 Concession £25.00

What is the course about?

Combining lecture and seminar elements, we will discover the basic history and science of climate change, and engage in a discussion about how these manifest themselves in global challenges and humanity’s response to these against the backdrop of global politics.

What will we cover?

Emission dynamics and effects, shifting weather patterns, resource degradation and depletion, changes in ecosystems etc.
How climate changes manifest
Humanity’s responses to these against the backdrop of global politics.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

At the end of the course, you will
- Explain the history & science of climate change
- Assess how humanity manages climate change and the global challenges it faces
- Coinsider and frame your own perspective of climate change using basic scientific & historical theories.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is introductory and does not require previous studies on the topic. A good standard of English and a willingness to contribute to class discussions/debates are the only requirements.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

This will be an interactive lecture - you will be taught using PowerPoint, discussions and debates.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No other costs. Bring a notebook and pen if you would like to take notes, but this is not mandatory.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Please visit the Science and Nature section of our website to explore other related courses.

Gary Retallick

Dr. Gary Retallick Mathematics and Science Gary obtained his Phd in Philosophy of Physics from Kings College London in 2006. His thesis explored the physics of time, touching upon relativity, field equations, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics and metaphysics. Gary began his teaching career in computing, going on to teach philosophy for the WEA and Mary Ward Centre, and physics and mathematics at both Birkbeck College London and the Open University. He currently teaches various science related courses, spanning topics in physics, chemistry and mathematics, at City Lit. Languages - Cornish Aside from his career in Science, Gary has an ongoing interest in languages, in particular Cornish, the language of his ancestors. He began studying Cornish at City Lit in 1998, and after passing the grade three Cornish exam with distinction he started to assist his tutor, Jo P'rhys. After a number of years as language assistant to the class, Gary was formally appointed as teacher of the Cornish beginners class, allowing Jo to concentrate on the higher level classes. Gary now teaches both the beginners and lower intermediate classes.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.