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 focuses on how agricultural systems in Western Australia are rapidly changing in response to the need for more environmentally responsible production methods and a changing climate. The unit introduces the main temperate crop species and then uses a systems approach to provide an understanding of the relationships between crops, pastures, livestock, weeds, plant diseases and the environment. There is in-depth consideration of crop agronomy, conservation cropping, no-tillage and weed and disease control. Modelling as a tool to improve our understanding of complex agricultural systems is discussed and models evaluated.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Agricultural Science; Agricultural Science and Technology; Agricultural Technology; Agribusiness and Agricultural Science major sequences
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) explain the place of Australian agriculture in world food production; (2) recall key characteristics and agronomy of major crops grown in Western Australia; (3) articulate how agricultural systems can be managed to achieve more sustainable production; (4) explain crop and weed models and how they can be used to simulate complex agricultural systems; (5) explain the impact of the major pathogens and weeds on crops in Western Australia and formulate how they can be controlled; and (6) demonstrate critical thinking at a farming systems scale.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) agronomy report; (2) assignments (modelling and field day); and (3) online quizzes. 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)
Dr Gustavo Alckmin (00113844)
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
one Unit(s) AGRI1001 Feeding the World
Advisable prior study
AGRI2201 Pasture and Livestock Systems
Contact hours
lectures/computer labs: 4 hours per week
  • 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.