AP201 Agriculture Production Systems and Farm Management
DESCRIPTION
The unit describes the application of systems theory to animal and crop production as integrated management and production systems. The factors that influence the structure and functioning of agribusiness systems such as selection of crop and livestock are analysed. The unit identifies the issues within both plant and animal production systems that affect the market specifications of the intended product. The importance of green and sustainable agriculture in optimising production outcomes are explored. The unit includes 30 hours of work integrated learning experiences for students.
RELEVANT COURSES
*Core unit
CREDIT POINTS
10
DELIVERY MODE
On campus
PREREQUISITE OR CO-REQUISITE
Nil
UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES
LO1 Demonstrate an understanding of complex systems and apply systems analysis to agribusiness production and management
LO2 Analyse the factors that influence the structure and functioning of agribusiness systems
LO3 Critically examine the role of a range of industry structures
LO4 Apply agronomic theory to identify the issues within both plant and animal production systems that affect the market specifications of the intended product
LO5 Critique the structure and management of the farm as a business enterprise
CONTENT
Agricultural Production Systems
Crop Production Systems
Fundamentals of Agronomy
Farm Business Planning and Management
Managing systems sustainably
Fertilizers /nutrient management and Water use efficiency
Rural innovation to improve agriculture systems
Fundamentals of crop management
Animal Production Systems
Management of meat production, Genetics and Breeding of livestocks
Reproductive management and Grazing Management
The Farm and sustainable resource management including Changing climate
ASSESSMENT METHODS
1. Online Quizzes - 20%
2. Assessment - 30%
3. Exam - 50%
PRESCRIBED READINGS
Snapp, S. and Pound, B. eds., 2017. Agricultural systems: Agroecology and rural innovation for development. Academic Press.
Check with the lecturer each semester before purchasing any textbooks