Module Catalog Archive

Module: Modeling of Agroecosystems (4905-460)

Note: Last updated September 2019. Current module catalog in HohCampus.
Persons:
Degree Program:
Relation to other Modules:
The module provides basic knowledge on ecophysiology of tropical crops as well as modelling of agro-ecosystems. It is linked to the modules M4905-440 (Ressourcenschutz und Landrehabilitierung) and M4905-410 (Weltwirtschaftspflanzen und Weidewirtschaft in den Tropen und Subtropen).
Prerequisites for Attendance:

Completed bachelor degree in agricultural sciences or related study programs. Basic knowledge in botany and plant physiology are very welcome.

Sprache:
English
ECTS:
6 credits
Frequency:
every summer semester
Length of the Module:
1 semester
Compulsory assignment:
Data collection (20%), development of crop model in groups (60%) and model präsentation (20%)
Module examination:
written (50%) and oral (50%)
Final examination:
Self-developed model (Stella file) Model presentation, discussion und defence
Length of the examination:
60 minutes
Workload:

56 h presence + 104 h preparation at home + exam = 160 h workload

Professional competences:

Based on the practical experiments and lectures in module 4905-461 and M4905-462 as well as on literature research and own knowledge, students will develop a conceptual plant growth model. Working with an intuitive software (Stella) will enable the students to draw material stocks and flows associated with photosynthesis, respiration and assimilate allocation. Building on the practical module part, the model simulations will be assessed regarding orders of magnitude and dynamics.

Key competences:

Students will get an insight in and practice systems thinking, considering feedbacks, competition for resources, tipping points and other mechanisms relevant in ecology and crop ecophysiology. Models will be developed by individuals or groups based on their suggestions, so that existing knowledge and preferences are integrated. Group work, critical discussion of mind models, and output-oriented planning of the model project will be practiced in this module.

Comments:

Within the frame of of this module, participating students develop a simple crop growth model. In the oral exam, students present and discuss their model approach with the lecturers.
The contents of all lectures and practical lessons is available in Ilias under < M4905-460>. Access is possible after request.

Courses

Code Title Type Bindingness Course catalogue
4905-461 Modelling lecture with exercise compulsory
4905-462 Ecophysiology and Analysis of Growth and Development lecture with practicals compulsory