Module: Problems and Perspectives of Organic Farming (3405-450)

Persons:

• Dr. Sabine Zikeli (verantwortlich)

Degree Program:

• Organic Agriculture and Food Systems (Master, since 01.10.2014)
  2. Semester, elective

Relation to other Modules:

In combination with the other modules on Organic Farming the students will receive a good overview on current research in Organic Farming as well as on the institutions involved. In depth information on certain research questions is provided, enabling students to sharpen their profile also regarding their future professional career.

Prerequisites for Attendance:

Knowledge on Organic Farming, e.g. the B.Sc. modules 3405-210 and 3405-220; but OrganicFood compulsory modules Organic Crop Production, Organic Livestock husbandry and Cultural and Sociological Conditions of Organic Farming are better.

Sprache:

English

ECTS:

6 credits

Frequency:

every summer semester

Length of the Module:

1 semester

Final examination:

Written exam (100 %)

Length of the examination:

120 minutes

Workload:

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

Professional competences:

After completing this module, students have profound knowledge of current controversial topics in organic farming and the organic sector in both nature sciences and socioeconomics (e.g. use of GMO, use of copper as a plant protection agent, animal breeding for organic farming).
Students are proficient in agricultural policy concerning organic farming. They are able to apply methods of developing, implementing and evaluating organic farming policies, such as structured workshop concepts and the application of a SWOT analysis.
Furthermore, students understand the certification system for organic farming and its economic logic. They are able to discuss the integration of organic farming in current sustainability strategies from a sociological point of view.
Students are finally able to test their knowledge in a field exercise in organic plant breeding and receive practical input on plant protection in organic fruit growing during an excursion to an organic fruit farm.

Key competences:

During preparation for the exam and while preparing and following up on lectures, students practice self-reliance and time management. They learn and practice both critical and analytical thinking and reading of scientific literature, while writing essays enhances their scientific articulateness. With the presentation, students practice and improve their capability of exploring a scientific issue. During group work, students train to cooperate with their colleagues and to grip and present a closely defined scientific subject in a limited time.

Courses