Module Information

Module Identifier
BR11410
Module Title
INTRODUCTION TO ANIMAL PRODUCTION SYSTEMS
Academic Year
2012/2013
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 2 (Taught over 2 semesters)
Mutually Exclusive
Other Staff

Course Delivery

Delivery Type Delivery length / details
Lecture 1 x 1 hour lecture per week
Practical 4 x 3 hour visits
Lecture 1 x 1 hour lecture per week
Practical 4 x 3 hour visits
 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Animal Production assignment  Outcomes 1, 2  40%
Semester Exam 1.5 Hours   Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4  60%
Supplementary Assessment 1.5 Hours   Examination 60%; Assignment 40%  Students must take elements of assessment equivalent to those that led to failure of the module  Outcomes 1-4  100%

Learning Outcomes

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

1. Describe the important systems of production used in the beef, sheep, dairy, pig, broiler and egg production industries

2. Identify the main constraints on productivity for each of these systems

3. Compare the efficiency of different methods of production for each system

4. Discuss the application of scientific research to animal production

Brief description

This module provides an introduction to the major farm animal production systems (beef, sheep, dairy, pig, broiler and egg) and their design in the context of UK and world agriculture. Particular reference to be made to constraints on production - economic, social, environmental and animal health and welfare. The scope for the application of scientific knowledge and research will be highlighted as a foundation for subsequent modules.

Content

1. For each of the main animal production systems (beef, sheep, dairy, pig, broiler and egg) an introduction to:

a. The different systems of production and their relative efficiencies, strengths and weaknesses
b. The current economic and legislative context of each system
c. Health and other constraints on production in each system

2. The application of research to animal production, including biotechnology

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number The assignment will have an element of number manipulation. This will be assessed in the assignment and feedback will be given.
Communication Students will develop effective written communication skills in the examination and assignment, where these will be assessed. Feedback will be given in the assignment.
Improving own Learning and Performance Outside the formal contact hours, students will be expected to research materials, manage time and meet deadlines for the assignment and exam. Students will be able to review and monitor their progress and plan for improvement of personal performance. Feedback on the quality of outcomes will be given in the assignment.
Information Technology Accessing the web for reliable information sources and using databases to find literature in preparation for the assignment and the exam.
Personal Development and Career planning The module will indicate potential career destinations to students
Problem solving The assignment will have an element of problem solving which will be assessed and feedback will be given.
Research skills The assignment and exam will require students to research topics beyond the depth and scope of the lecture material. Information from a variety of sources will be used. Research skills will be assessed in both the examination and assignment. Feedback will be given in the assignment.
Subject Specific Skills Subject specific concepts relating to animal production will be developed and assessed in the exam and assignment. Feedback will be given in the assignment.
Team work

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4