The "Boring Billion"- What Really Happened 1.8 to 0.8 Billion Years Ago?

This course explores the period known as the "Boring Billion" between 1.8 to 0.8 billion years ago, questioning whether it was truly uneventful. The learning outcomes include understanding the geology, ocean chemistry, and key events of this time, such as the formation of supercontinents and the rise of molecular oxygen. Students will learn about the impact of these events on the evolution of life, particularly complex, multicellular organisms. The course delves into why the ocean remained sulfidic and anoxic during this period and contrasts it with the periods before and after marked by significant oxygenation events. The teaching method involves a detailed analysis of scientific research and references to provide a comprehensive understanding of this intriguing era. This course is designed for individuals interested in Earth's history, geology, oceanography, and the evolution of life on our planet.