Introduction to Permaculture

 

Introduction to Permaculture can be studied as a stand-alone course and as an optional course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Field Ecology at Aberystwyth University at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 Weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Angela Polkey 

Learning Method: Blended. 

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XS11810

Fee: £140.00 - Fee waiver scheme available

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Overview

This course gives a basic but wide-ranging introduction to permaculture as an approach to designing more sustainable and regenerative ways of living and working on the earth. It will give a good grounding in the core elements of a permaculture approach including the ethical framework and values that underpin it; the principles from nature that it draws from; and a design framework for applying these principles. Learners will be encouraged to explore and consider the issues that matter to their own life and work, as well as experiencing practical examples of permaculture in action. The course includes a 2-day fieldtrip to a well-established permaculture site in west Wales, where an experienced designer will provide an insight to the work undertaken as well as guiding and supporting learners in practical investigations and designs of their own. 

Programme

Online Seminar 1: What is permaculture? 

Online Seminar 2: Ethics and framework of permaculture including ecological and attitudinal principles.

Online Seminar 3: Techniques v’s design in permaculture. 

Day 1 Fieldwork to include: A full day (8.5 hours including breaks) at Denmark Farm which will include: permaculture design exercises; a permaculture approach to water (harvesting, retaining, using and cycling); site exploration; a permaculture approach to soil and soil practical’s (soil pit / worms, drainage, texture, pH, indicator plants) 

Day 2 Fieldwork to include: A full day (7 hours including breaks) at Denmark Farm which will include: microclimates and reading the landscape, using survey tools (pacing, A-frame, bunyip), design brief, presentations and feedback.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Describe and apply permaculture ethics as a framework that governs and guides all design decisions.

  2. Describe and apply permaculture principles as tools to assist in and guide the process of design and decision making.

  3. Apply the role and application of zones and sectors in sustainable design.

  4. Prepare a simple design for a permaculture project (usually land-based)

Assessments

  1. Written Assignment based on the topics covered in the three online seminars - 1500 words. (50%)

  2. Permaculture Design project - 500 words (50%)

Reading Suggestions

Whitefield, P (2010) Permaculture in a Nutshell. Permanent Publications.
Aranya (2012) Permaculture Design. Permanent Publications.
Bell, G (2004) The Permaculture Way: Practical Steps to Create a Self-sustainable World. Permanent Publications.

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need?

As this is an blended course, you would need the following:

  • Internet access.
  • Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also benefit.

Use of the Chrome web browser where possible.