Organic Agriculture

Course content

This course is a basic course in organic food production, linking ecological theory with organic farming practises. The course is targeted to students in the last part of their BSc studies who seeks knowledge of the principles, the practice and the environmental impacts of organic agriculture as well as a understanding of the application of ecological mechanisms in the organic production systems. The main content is:

- The natural and socio-economic conditions for and the status of organic agriculture in Denmark, Europe and overseas

- Organic principles and standards

- Principles and practise of cropping system design

- Crop and soil management, including fertilization, pest management and technological aspects of organic agriculture

- Function and management of biodiversity in organic farming

- Impacts of organic agriculture on nature and environment

Learning outcome

 

After completing the course the student should be able to:

 

Knowledge

- Show overview of production practices in different contexts

- Reflect on the role of organic standards as an external condition for organic food production

 

Skills

- retrieve, process and communicate information

 

Competencies

- discuss the values and principles behind the organic practices

- explain how ecological mechanisms are employed in management of crops and soils, nutrients and pests

- explain differences in the environmental impact of different farming systems

- reflect on own learning

Learning methods are a combination of staff input and individual and group activities in class. They include lectures, workshops, independent reading and information gathering, student presentations, exercises, assignments and excursions to organic farms.

See Absalon for course literature. 

The course requires basic knowledge in natural sciences and can be followed by students in agriculture, environmental science, biology or geography. Basic knowledge within soil and crop science is recommended. Students from other backgrounds must seek teacher advice vl@plen.ku.dk

Written
Oral
Individual
Collective

Feedback to course deliverables is offered in a form appropriate to the deliverable. 

ECTS
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Portfolio
Oral examination, 20 min.
Description of Examination:An individual portfolio containing 4 of 6 deliverables is assessed, supplemented by an individual oral examination. The oral examination last 20 minutes (no preparation time) and is based on two deliverables, selected by the student and staff respectively. All aids allowed. Weight: 50% portfolio, 50% oral examination. Both parts must be passed.
Aid
All aids allowed
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
1 internal examiner
Criteria for exam assessment

See learning outcome

Single subject courses (day)

  • Category
  • Hours
  • Lectures
  • 35
  • Theory exercises
  • 35
  • Preparation
  • 96
  • Excursions
  • 20
  • Colloquia
  • 10
  • Exam
  • 10
  • English
  • 206