| Module Identifier |
RD20720 |
| Module Title |
ANIMAL PRODUCTION SYSTEMS |
| Academic Year |
2004/2005 |
| Co-ordinator |
Dr Basil T Wolf |
| Semester |
Semester 1 |
| Other staff |
Dr Michael T Rose, Dr Selwyn P Williams |
| Course delivery |
Lecture | 44 Hours |
| |
Practical | 33 Hours 11 x 3 hours |
| Assessment |
| Assessment Type | Assessment Length/Details | Proportion |
|---|
| Semester Exam | 2 Hours | 60% |
| Semester Assessment | Assignment | 40% |
| Supplementary Assessment | Candidates will be required to re-take the elements that led to failing the module. | |
|
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
Outcome 1.
Describe (quantitatively) important production systems and identify components thereof.
Performance criteria:
a. Production targets are identified.
b. Different phases of the production cycle and the inter-relationships between them are recognised.
Range: Either dairy or beef cattle, sheep or pigs.
Outcome 2.
Recognise constraints on productivity.
Performance criteria:
a. Biological, economic and social constraints on production methods and efficiency are evaluated.
Range: Either dairy or beef cattle, pigs or sheep.
Outcome 3.
Identify the role played by scientific research in the development of animal production systems.
Performance criteria:
a. Reference is made to experimental evidence when evaluating alternative practices.
Range: Either dairy or beef cattle, pigs or sheep.
Outcome 4.
Analyse livestock performance records in order to identify and explain sub-optimal performance
Performance criteria:
a. Sub-optimal performance is identified.
b. Potential causes of sub-optimal performance are identified and discussed.
Range: Either dairy or beef cattle, pigs or sheep.
Brief description
This course details the husbandry of dairy and beef cattle, calves, sheep and pigs in the production of meat, milk and wool. For each species, the structure of the world, EU and UK industries will be outlined and likely future trends will be identified. The major production systems used in the UK will be described, emphasizing the importance of production targets and performance monitoring in the management of efficient animal production systems. The practical application of scientific knowledge concerning animal growth, reproduction, lactation, genetics, nutrition, health and welfare will be evaluated.
Farm visits will provide opportunities to meet farmers and study the operation of successful animal husbandry systems. Practical classes will introduce important skills in the management of farm animals.
Transferable skills
.1 Independent project work
The assignment will involve evaluation of data records to identify sub-optimal performance and students will be expected to suggest suitable solutions and demonstrate how they would choose between alternative proposals.
.2 IT and information handling
Assignment data will be provided on a spreadsheet.
.3 Use and analysis of numerical information
The assignment will involve evaluation of data records with students being expected to compare the average and range in animal performance with industry standards.
.5 Oral discussion and presentation
Skills in oral discussion will be developed during visits and practicals.
.6 Careers need awareness
Developed during visits and practicals.
Reading Lists
Books
Whittemore C The science and practice of pig production
Blackwell Science 0632050861
Blowey R W (1999) A veterinary book for dairy farmers
Farming Press 0852364997
Croston, D (1994) Planned sheep production
2nd. Blackwell Scientific Publications 0632035765
Allen, D Planned beef production and marketing
Blackwell Scientific Publications 0632026111
Webster, A J F (1993) Understanding the dairy cow
Blackwell Scientific Publications Professional Book 0632034386
Notes
This module is at CQFW Level 5