Module Identifier RS10210  
Module Title THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY  
Academic Year 2007/2008  
Co-ordinator Dr Iwan G Owen  
Semester Semester 2  
Other staff Dr Phillipa K Nicholas, Mr Penri James  
Course delivery Lecture   2 x 1 hour lectures per week  
  Other   4 day field trip  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Assessment STUDY TOUR PRESENTATION AND 1500 WORD ASSIGNMENT  60%
Semester Exam1.5 Hours WRITTEN EXAMINATION  40%
Supplementary Exam2 Hours WRITTEN EXAMINATION  100%

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
Outline the aims and objectives of farming systems and identify the regulations governing farming in the UK and the European Union.

Identify the main principles governing crop and livestock systems

Discuss the role of the market and other factors influencing productivity

Discuss the contribution of farming to food quality, environmental and social policy objectives

Brief description

An appreciation and understanding of agricultural systems is a fundamental requirement for agricultural students. The module deals with interactions among the components of agricultural systems, among hierarchical levels of agricultural systems, between agricultural and other land use systems, and between agricultural systems and their natural and social environments. In particular, its aim is to encourage integration of knowledge among those disciplines that underpin agriculture. The module provides an introduction to the objectives, principles, practices and performance of farming systems and the natural, economic and social factors which shape contemporary agriculture.

Content

The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and a study tour encompassing visits to farms and agricultural and food businesses and will cover the following aspects:

Module Skills

Problem solving Will form part of the coursework set  
Research skills Students will gain research experience both prior to and during the study tour in addition to the completion of coursework  
Communication Both the study tour and assessed presentation will develop communication skills and this will be assessed  
Team work The study tour and associated coursework provides for significant opportunities for group interaction and discussion  
Information Technology Students will be expected to use Word and Powerpoint when compiling and presenting the tour assignment  
Personal Development and Career planning Industry contacts will be made during study tour  

Reading Lists

Books
** Recommended Text
Haines, M (1982) An introduction to farming systems Longman
Soffe, R J (editor) (2004) Agricultural notebook 20th. Blackwell Science 0632058293
Spedding, C R W (1988) An introduction to farming systems Elsevier 1851661913
Spedding, C R W (1992) Fream's Principles of Food and Agriculture Blackwell Scientific 0632029781

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4