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 the factors, technologies and policies that influence global food, fibre and fuel production. Plant, animal and microbe systems are considered in light of social and environmental issues such as population growth, climate change, urbanisation and land use, the availability of water and fertilisers and the global food system. Strategies being taken or considered to mitigate the negative effects of these issues from the farm to the lab to national and transnational levels are discussed.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop an understanding of the factors influencing global production and supply of food, fibre and biofuel; (2) develop an understanding of the technologies influencing global production and supply of food, fibre and biofuel; (3) develop an understanding of the policies influencing global production and supply of food, fibre and biofuel; (4) expand oral and written communication skills; and (5) expand analytical and critical communication skills.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) debate and summary and (2) review and presentation of an aspect of food, fibre and biofuel security. 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)
Professor Ian Small and Professor Philip Vercoe
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
71580 Master of Biotechnology
or 72510 Master of Agricultural Science
or 74230 Graduate Certificate in Bioinformatics
Contact hours
lectures, tutorials and/or workshops: 6 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.