Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit develops students understanding of the systems that control physiological processes in animals, and the ways we can modify these processes with modern science and technology to implement 'clean, green and ethical' management. The unit is based on three modules, each of which is introduced during a tutorial where students are briefed on the content of each module, on the level of understanding that is required, and on the method of assessment. This mode of teaching allows students flexibility and choice so they can best match their background, other components of their curriculum, and their research interests.

During the first module 'The interaction between reproduction on production: real-life problem', students visit a production system of their choice, interview the producers, identify a problem and search the literature and analyse the literature using special statistical tools. Students write a consultant report that describes the quantitative comparison of the impact of reproduction and production, and proposes solutions to improve both production, reproduction and animal wellbeing. The industry context, especially the social-economic context, needs to be considered in the final discussion.

During the second module 'New animal industries', students are assigned to a case study focused on a new industry. Students deliver a consultant report describing the new industry, its development in Australia, the advantages and limitations of the industry and propose recommendations to further develop a new industry of choice.

For the third module 'Impact of animal industries on the environment', students are asked to distill information available on the environmental impact of livestock production and to focus on the animal production/nutrition aspects of the livestock producer's enterprise in a written report.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between inputs and outputs in livestock production systems; (2) demonstrate an understanding of the potential importance of new industries in Australia; (3) demonstrate an understanding of the impact of livestock industry on the environment; (4) demonstrate an understanding of the role of consultancy to the livestock industries and the society; (5) evaluate scientific literature and writing in scientific papers using meta-analysis and field data meta-analysis; and (6) demonstrate self-management and independent learning skills.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) oral presentations (10 per cent); (2) consultancy reports (65 per cent); and (3) summary report (25 per cent). Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Dominique Blache
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
72510 Master of Agricultural Science
Contact hours
Seminar 3 hours per week, Tutorial 2 hours per week and an over night field trip . The total workload for the unit is 150 hours.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.