Agrifood Production Systems

Code

BIOS2103

School

Biosciences

Level

2

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring Malaysia

Summary

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of plant science with an applied context from the molecular level to the field. There is an emphasis on the mechanisms that plants use to capture and utilise physical resources i.e. solar energy, water and nutrients. The module examines the physiological basis of resource capture and utilisation in growth and development.
This physiological understanding will be applied in an agricultural context to consider major crop
species in the world. Limitations to resource capture by crops, and how growers overcome these, will be considered in relation to integrated crop management. The module also considers the use of new technologies in plant science within the last couple of decades and how these have been applied to the real word such as factory farming- vertical farming, modern green houses, precision agriculture and introductory livestock farming technology.

Target Students

BSc Biotechnology. Capped module - registration by agreement with the module conveneronly. Availability to Exchange Students - Available where suitable pre-requisite exists. Thereis a limited number of places on this module. Students are reminded that enrolments whichare not agreed by the Offering School in advance may be cancelled without notice.Conditions:- Only available for students studying BSc Hons Biotechnology.

Classes

• One 3-hour practicum each week for 3 weeks
• One 2-hour lecture each week for 9 weeks

Activities may take place every teaching week of the Semester or only in specified weeks. It is usually specified above if an activity only takes place in some weeks of a Semester

Assessment

• 100% Coursework: Plant Growth Practical (2500words)

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
A. Knowledge and understanding–
• the ability to Learn about new technologies in crop production within the last couple of decades such as urban agriculture, modern green houses and how these have been applied to the real-life problem.
• The ability to describe the physical resources available for plant growth and development and ability to discuss the integrated methods to manage major plant diseases.
• Investigate and apply innovative approaches in the management of agricultural and livestock production
B. Intellectual Skills
• the ability to collect and integrate several lines of evidence and apply them in a balanced manner to support an argument and ability to apply subject knowledge to solve problems
C. Practical Skills –
• the ability to use different techniques used in for green house cultivation of crops and the ability to analyse data accurately and critically and write referenced report
D. Transferable/key skills – the ability
• to communicate effectively in a written form
• to prepare material with attention to accuracy and detail
• to manage working time effectively

Conveners

• Prof Asgar Ali