IM511 Blockchain in Agribusiness
DESCRIPTION
The unit equips students with an advanced understanding of blockchain technology and its significance in agriculture. It explores topics such as cryptography, the concept of blockchain technology, its role in agriculture especially in agricultural insurance, supply chains, green bonds, and traceability. Students will also develop knowledge that is needed to build applications based on blockchain technology, by offering an architectural view of software systems that make beneficial use of it. This unit examines the principles of blockchain technology and provides practical examples, through case studies and research papers, of how those principles should be and are applied in agriculture.
RELEVANT COURSES
Master of Agricultural Information Management
Master of Business Administration (Agribusiness)
Elective unit
CREDIT POINTS
10
DELIVERY MODE
On campus
PREREQUISITE OR CO-REQUISITE
MK400 Agribusiness Marketing
IM401 Introduction to Agroinformatics
UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES
LO1 Demonstrate detail knowledge of key blockchain technology strategies
LO2 Critically reflect on the disruptive impact of blockchain technology on agribusiness and society
LO3 Assess and design basic blockchain applications in a structured manner
LO4 Interpret the technology and reflect on the opportunities and challenges in implementing blockchain-based systems in agriculture
LO5 Communicate blockchain technology strategies to general audiences
CONTENT
Introduction and history of blockchain
Software architecture: Blockchain basics and cryptography
Blockchain design principles
Digital ID and cyber security in agribusiness
Financial system challenges & opportunities
Blockchain and agricultural supply chain management
Blockchain technology: Agricultural insurances
Blockchain technology: Green economy
Financial and agricultural risk management
Blockchain: public policy frameworks
Industry speaker: trade, finance, and supply chain
Threats and opportunities in emerging issues
ASSESSMENT METHODS
1. Blog Entries - 20%
2. Case Study - 30%
3. Group Research Paper and Oral Presentation - 50% (20% is allocated for individual reflection + presentation)
PRESCRIBED READINGS
Sylvester, G. (Ed.). (2019). E-agriculture in action: Blockchain for agriculture—Opportunities and challenges. International Telecommunication Union
Check with the lecturer each semester before purchasing any textbooks.