Module Identifier RS14510  
Module Title PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIC AGRICULTURE  
Academic Year 2002/2003  
Co-ordinator Mr Nicolas H Lampkin  
Semester Semester 2  
Pre-Requisite Only available to students on BSc Organic Agriculture scheme  
Course delivery Lecture   22 Hours 22 x 1 hour lectures  
  Seminars / Tutorials   6 Hours  
  Practical   6 Hours 2 x 3 hour Farm visits  
Assessment Semester Exam   1.5 Hours Outcomes assessed: (b), (c), (d) and (e)   70%  
  Semester Assessment   1000 word coursework assignment Outcomes assessed: (a)   30%  
  Supplementary Exam   1.5 Hours Outcomes assessed: All   100%  

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

a. Summarise the aims and objectives of organic farming and identify the regulations governing organic farming in the European Union and the UK;
b. Identify and explain the key principles and practices involved in maintaining soil fertility and plant productivity and health in organic farming systems;
c. Explain the role of livestock and forage production in organic farming systems and identify the key principles and practices underpinning the management, productivity, health and welfare of organic livestock;
d. Discuss the role of the market and other factors influencing the physical and financial performance of organic farming and their implications for the adoption of organic farming and the conversion process;
e. Discuss the contribution of organic farming to food quality, environmental and social policy objectives and outline the policy measures which have a direct influence on the extent and adoption of organic farming in the European Union.

Brief description

The aim of the module is to describe and explain the objectives, principles and practice of organic farming systems in a UK and European context. It covers the objectives, principles and practice of organic farming, including soil management, crop production, livestock production, business, socio-economic and environmental aspects. The performance of organic farming in the context of the regulatory and policy environment within which it operates is considered.

Transferable skills

.1 Independent project work
This will be addressed through the coursework assessment

.2 IT and information handling
Word processing and internet usage as part of coursework assessment

.4 Writing in an academic context
Examination

.5 Oral discussion and presentation
Tutorials will be held to encourage group discussion at this level.

.6 Careers need awareness
Module will give perspectives on the scope of organic food and farming activities and the potential for careers in different areas

.7 Self-management
Submission deadlines for coursework assignment

.8 Group activity
Tutorials will be held to encourage group discussion at this level.

Reading Lists

Books
Altieri, M. (1995) Agroecology - the scientific basis of sustainable agriculture.. 2nd. Intermediate Technology Publications; London
Balfour, E B. The Living Soil and the Haughley Experiment. 1976. Universe Books; New York
Blake, F. (1994) Organic farming and growing. Crowood Press, Swindon
Lampkin N H. (1990) Organic Farming. Farming Press

Technical Reports
Soffe, R J (ed). (2002) Agricultural Notebook: see N H Lampkin 'Organic Farming'. 20. Blackwell Science

Books
Lampkin, N and Measures. (2001) 2001 Organic Farm Management Handbook.
Mollison B. (1990) Permaculture. A practical guide for a sustainable future.. Island Press
Tinker, P B. (2000) Shades of green: a review of UK farming systems. RASE
SA. (2001) Standards for organic food and farming. Soil Association Organic Marketing Co Ltd
(2001) UKROFS standards for organic food production. UK Register of Organic Food Standards, MAFF, London