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Book of Modules 2012/2013 |
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PS2001 Introduction to Plant Biotechnology
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 80.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 3 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Barbara Doyle Prestwich, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To introduce students to plant cloning and genetic manipulation.
Module Content: Principles and applications of biotechnology. Plant cell totipotency. - Derivation and composition of plant tissue culture media. Somatic embrogenesis and adventitious regeneration. Plant cloning. The stages in Micropropagation. Culture contamination and genetic instability. - Plant cell tissue and organ culture in plant genetic manipulation and production of plant secondary products. Recombinant DNA technology, - gene cloning - restriction enzymes and cloning vectors, construction of genomic, cDNA and chromosome libraries, - DNA sequence analysis - specific target traits for genetic engineering.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Define the principles and applications of biotechnology
· Describe the processes involved in the regeneration of plant tissues in vitro
· Explain the use of recombinant DNA
· Demonstrate competence in the use of appropriate technology in this area (e.g DNA minipreps, gel electrophoresis, PCR)
· Interpret data from cloning experiments
· Integrate the concepts of genetic processes involved in the modification of plants using traditional and novel methods.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (2 Practical Reports and one essay (5 marks each); MCQ (15 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by the department).
PS2002 Ecological Plant Physiology
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 90.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 5 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Marcel A.K. Jansen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Dr Marcel A.K. Jansen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To provide an insight in the molecular-physiological mechanisms that plants use to adjust to their environment.
Module Content: Light, light quality and daylength control plant growth and development. Temperature as an environmental signal for plants. Phytohormone mediate environmental impacts. Plant-plant competition. Plants and herbivores
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recognise the main environmental signals that control plant growth and development.
· Differentiate between effects of light on photosynthesis and photomorphogenesis
· Explain the relative importance of photon flux, daylength and light spectra on plant growth and development
· Identify the complex effects of temperature on growth and development
· Explain the role of phytohormones in mediating environmental signals
· Describe the role of plant-plant interactions in defining the composition of a natural vegetation
· Assess the role of plant-herbivore interactions in defining the composition of a natural vegetation.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (2 Practical Reports (10 marks and 5 marks respectively), MCQ (15 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: End of year examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by the department).
PS3008 Plants and Hostile Environments
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 30.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 5 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Marcel A.K. Jansen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To provide insight in the molecular-physiological mechanisms underpinning plant responses to climate change, including knock-on effects on trophic interactions and ecosystems
Module Content: Plants cannot move, and this limits their ability to avoid exposure to unfavourable abiotic conditions that are part of climate change. The responses of plants to extreme climatic conditions, including flooding, strong winds, UV-B radiation, high and low temperatures, air pollution, and fire will be described. Protective acclimation and adaptation responses will be studied at molecular and organismal levels, as will consequences of these processes at the level of the ecosystem (trade-offs, competition).
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Distinguish the molecular-physiological effects of different extreme environmental conditions on plants
· Explain the role of ROS in plant stress responses
· Recognise the role of antioxidants in plant acclimation and human nutrition
· Review the consequences of molecular stress responses at the organism and/or ecosystem level
· Examine the potential to exploit specific plant stress responses
· Appraise the potential effects of plant acclimation responses on trophic interactions.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (1 Practical Report (15 marks) and MCQ (15 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by the department).
PS3018 Plant and Animal Genetics
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 60.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 4 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To describe ecological, evolutionary and molecular genetics of plants and animals, and to present their application in the process of improving domesticated plants and animals, and in monitoring wild populations.
Module Content: Molecular analysis of the eukaryote genome. Chromosomal organisation. Structural and functional eukaryotic genomics. Sources of genetic variation. Population genetics: mutation, selection, random genetic drift. Adaptation, evolution, reproductive isolation, speciation, applications, genetic improvement of animals and Case histories. DNA profiling. Case histories. Molecular ecology: monitoring of wild populations. Plant breeding programmes. Important traits in plant breeding. Improved selection methods. Widening the gene pool. GM crops: case histories and critical evaluation.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the structure, function and distribution of DNA sequences
· Relate the effects of genetic variation at different levels of organisation
· Apply the principles of genetics to the practice of plant and animal breeding
· Critically assess the value of GM and non-GM strategies for crop improvement.
· Describe the use of molecular tools in population monitoring.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks (End of year examination); Continuous Assessment 30 marks (2 X MCQ (15 marks each)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed the department).
PS3019 Bioactive Natural Products
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 60.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 1 x .5day(s) Fieldwork (1 Industrial Visits); 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals; 1 x 3weeks(s) Directed Study (Student Seminars; Library project).
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Barbara Doyle Prestwich, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Dr Barbara Doyle Prestwich, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To provide a course on plant pharmaceuticals.
Module Content: An overview of pharmacognosy and the value of natural drugs. An introduction to pharmacobiotechnology, biotechnology and drug discovery. Quality control and standardisation in the production of natural products. Classes of plant toxins and their effects on animals. Allelopathy. The alkaloids - their effectiveness as therapeutic agents. Terpenoids - their role and distribution in nature. The role of plant cell and tissue culture in the production and maintenance of medicinal plants. Introduction to the volatile oils and spices.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the different classes of plant secondary metabolites
· Explain the significance of the occurrence of secondary metabolites in different taxonomic groups, in different plant parts and in different locations around the world (the influence of the environment)
· Design protocols for the up-regulation of secondary metabolites in plants using a biotechnological approach
· Conduct laboratory experiments on phytonutrients (using titrations and chromatography) (and also using a genetic engineering approach for the modification of medicinally important plants).
· Communicate your research findings to the class using a suitable presentation medium (for example powerpoint).
· Distinguish between the different available strategies for the ethical and sustainable use of natural resources.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (Library Project/Student seminars 10 marks; 1 Fieldtrip report 10 marks; 1 Practical report 10 marks).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by BEES).
PS4006 Genetic Manipulation of Plants
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 20.
Pre-requisite(s): PS2001
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 6 x 1hr(s) Directed Study.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Barbara Doyle Prestwich, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Dr Barbara Doyle Prestwich, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To advance student knowledge of transgenic plants.
Module Content: Plant breeding systems and novel approaches to plant improvement. Somatic hybridisation. Chemical and physical mutagenesis. Somaclonal variation and characterisation of mutants. Use of tissue culture systems in plant breeding. Selection in vitro; use of flow cytometry, computerised image analysis and proteomic and genomic fingerprinting in selection. Genetic engineering - status of the industry. Technology for assessing transgenics. Transformation of monocot and dicot plants. Case studies on transgenic plants - virus, herbicide and insect resistance. Unpredictable gene expression in transgenic plants. Field trialling of genetically modified crops and future prospects for the widespread use of genetically modified crops in agriculture.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Define the differences between traditional and novel approaches to plant improvement
· Investigate novel biotechnological methods for plant improvement
· Describe the methodology involved in proteomic and genomic fingerprinting
· Distinguish between the different methods of generating transgenic crops
· Criticise the use of foreign genes in terms of their behaviour in the genome and more broadly their environmental impact
· Assess EU legislation relating to the deliberate release of GM organisms.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 100 marks.
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): None.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
PS4018 Food Production and the Environment
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.
No. of Students: Min 5, Max 35.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Directed Study.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To develop an understanding of food production in the modern world with a particular emphasis on using sustainable management systems based on ecological principles.
Module Content: Global food production, demographic trends and world trade. Current threats and opportunities. Intensive agriculture: strengths and weaknesses. Strategies for improving the sustainability of food production. Characteristics of organic farming and permaculture.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe global food production and future prospects for agriculture.
· Identify the principal features of intensive agriculture and the environmental impacts of these production systems.
· Define the role of biotechnology in food production and be able to assess concerns relating to the use of this technology.
· Outline the principles and practices relating to sustainable agriculture.
· Assess strengths and weaknesses of the organic farm.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 100 marks.
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): None.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
PS4021 Environmentally Protective Management of Plant Pests and Pathogens
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 30.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Directed Study.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To describe the principles and practice of the biological (use of living organisms) and biorational (use of natural chemicals) control of plant pests and pathogens in natural and agroecosystems.
Module Content: Introduction to plant pathology. Principles of biological control. Practical examples of biological control of invertebrates and pathogens. Biorational control measures: use of semiochemicals in pest, disease management, including pheromones, elicitors. Commercialisation of biocontrol agents. Integrated pest, disease management.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the principles and practice of biological control.
· Identify appropriate biocontrol strategies for specific types of pests or pathogens.
· Describe the principles and practice of biorational control of pests and pathogens.
· Discuss the involvement of biological and biorational control in Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 100 marks.
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): None.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
PS4023 Plants and Sustainability
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 35.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Directed Study.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To demonstrate how the latest developments in understanding of plant form and function, individually or in communities, can be harnessed to address pressing environmental issues
Module Content: Food production (cultural and genetic manipulation of crops); phytoremediation (treatment of polluted water and soil using plants); renewable resources (sustainable production of energy and biochemicals from plants); rehabilitation of damaged ecosystems (restoration ecology) .
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe how the economic yield of a crop per unit land area can be increased by manipulating crop physiology.
· Identify the mechanisms by which plants can eliminate natural toxins and xenobiotics from polluted land and water.
· Demonstrate the advantages and disadvantages of renewable plant-derived energy sources
· Demonstrate an understanding of how degraded ecosystems can be restored
· Describe how botanical principles can be applied to solving environmental problems.
· Outline the steps involved in commercialisation of a new plant-based product or process.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (Project 30 marks).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by BEES).
PS6001 Plant Genetic Engineering
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 5, Max 60.
Pre-requisite(s):
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 20 x 1hr(s) Directed Study.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Barbara Doyle Prestwich, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To provide students with theoretical knowledge on the principles and application of genetic engineering methods for the production of plants with novel traits and to develop an understanding of issues surrounding Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and EU legislation governing the release of these organisms.
Module Content: Transformation technology and the role of tissue culture. Problems with somaclonal variation and the genome position effect. Nuclear versus chloroplast engineering. Commerical traits to include insect and herbicide resistance. Broadening the traditional remit of crops - edible vaccine production. The controlled release of GM crops from containment. How safe is safe enough in genetic engineering? IPR and patent protection. EU legislation governing the release of GM plants.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Define the differences between traditional and novel approaches to plant improvement
· Describe novel biotechnological methods (using specific examples of commercial traits) for plant improvement
· Explain the methodology involved in assessing the nature of transgenic crops
· Outline how biotechnology-based tools have been used to enhance and expand the traditional remit of crops e.g for the production of edible vaccines
· Criticise the use of foreign genes in terms of their behaviour in the new host genome and more broadly their potential environmental impact
· Explain intellectual property rights and patent protection in the context of genetically engineered plants
· Discuss EU legislation relating to the deliberate release of GM organisms.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 100 marks.
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): None.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Spring.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 6 x 2hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES, and invited lecturers.
Module Objective: To teach the techniques of seed and vegetative propagation, and to identify the consequences of each propagation method.
Module Content: Seed propagation. Seed dormancy: mechanisms and adaptation. Breaking dormancy. Seed germination conditions. Consequences: trueness-to-type (self-, cross-pollinated species, F1 hybrids), disease. Plant improvement. Collecting and storing seed. Vegetative propagation. Perennating organs (bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes). Cuttings. Budding, grafting, layering etc. Consequences: trueness-to-type, virus infections, juvenile/ adult phase. Plant improvement by selection.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Collect and store viable seed from a range of plant species
· Break seed dormancy caused by physiological, morphological or morphophysiological means
· select suitable germination conditions for a range of plant species
· carry out vegetative propagation methods, including budding, grafting, layering and micro propagation
· Distinguish the consequences of different propagation methods.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (In-class written examination 50 marks; practical reports 25 marks; project 25 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by School of BEES).
PS6003 Organic Crop Production
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 4 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 4 x 1day(s) Fieldwork (projects and site visits).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To describe how to achieve year-round organic crop production in polytunnels and open ground.
Module Content: Organic and other sustainable growing methods. Organic certification processes. Protected crop production in polytunnels. Effects on plants of shading materials and reflectance/ transmittance mulches. Crop production in open ground and raised beds. Design and costing of year-round cropping plan.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Compare and contrast the various strategies for organic growing
· Design a high-return cropping plan for year-round crop production
· Plan, erect and maintain a polytunnel
· Design and operate a rotation raised bed system
· Demonstrate the use of transmittance and reflectance mulches and shading in protected crop production.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (In class written examination 80 marks; practical reports 40 marks; cropping plan 80 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by School of BEES).
PS6004 Structure and Improvement of Soils
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 12 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 1 x 1day(s) Fieldwork; 4 x 2hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To demonstrate how to analyse soil and to improve it appropriately.
Module Content: Soil constituents: clay, silt, sand, organic matter. Textural analysis and soil type. Soil characteristics. Soil biodiversity. Dig vs. no-dig systems. Soil improvement using soil amendments acceptable to organic certification bodies.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Fully analyse a soil sample in terms of textural analysis, pH.
· Recognise the effects of organically certified soil amendments on soil characteristics.
· Identify soil type in a field situation
· Devise a plan for soil improvement for a given soil sample for a named crop.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (In class written examination 50 marks; test soil analysis 20 marks; soil improvement plan 30 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by School of BEES).
PS6005 Nutrient and Water Supply for Organic Crops
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 12 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 5 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 1 x 1day(s) Fieldwork.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To describe the demands of different crops for nutrients and water, and organic methods for supplying them.
Module Content: Nutrient requirements of plants; deficiency and toxicity symptoms. Nutrient uptake and translocation. Nutrient cycles; nutrient reserves in soil. Sources of nutrient loss. Nutrient sources available to organic growers. Composting. Composts, manures, catch crops, green manures, crop rotation. Water demands. Water uptake and translocation. Water harvesting. Reduced water losses; increased water-holding capacity. Reduced evaporation; mulches.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Analyse nutrient content of soil following effective sampling
· Interpret nutrient analysis data
· Measure infiltration rate and water-holding capacity of a soil sample
· Identify nutrient deficiencies and toxicities in crop plants
· Design a nutrient management plan for a site with different crops
· Design a water management plan for a site with different crops.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (In class written examination 40 marks; nutrient management plan 30 marks. Water management plan 30 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by School of BEES).
PS6006 Organic Crop Pest and Pathogen Management
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 30 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 8 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 2 x 1day(s) Fieldwork.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To describe the principal pests and pathogens of horticultural crops and how to manage them using organically acceptable methods.
Module Content: Ecosystem approach to pest, pathogen management. Pathogens (fungi, bacteria and viruses): descriptions, symptoms, effects on crop yield, life cycles. Integrated pathogen management: resistant, avoiding or tolerant host cultivars, organically acceptable chemicals, cultural methods. Biological control, induced resistance. Arthropod pests (nematodes, molluscs, aphids, etc.): descriptions, symptoms, effects on crop yield, life cycles. Integrated pest management: host cultivars, organically acceptable chemicals, cultural methods. Biological control: augmentative, inundative biocontrol. Weeds (annuals, perennials): descriptions, effects on crop yield. Integrated weed management. Physical methods (mulches, cultivation).
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Design a growing area to encourage beneficial invertebrates
· Identify the major pests and pathogens of horticultural crops and appropriate management measures
· Design an Integrated Pest/Pathogen Management Strategy for a major horticultural crop
· Identify the major weeds of horticultural crops and appropriate management measures
· Describe the procedure for use of a crop protection chemical in organic horticulture.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (In class written examination 80 marks; practical examination 40 marks; report (Integrated Pest/Pathogen Management strategy for an organic horticulture enterprise) 80 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by School of BEES).
PS6007 Research Methods for Crop Science
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 16 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 16 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 1 x 1day(s) Fieldwork; 1 x 1day(s) Seminars.
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To develop practical skills and expertise in the design and execution of experiments, the appropriate analysis of data collected, the interpretation of the analyses, and the presentation of the results in oral and written formats.
Module Content: Experiment type: observational, manipulative. Use of appropriate analytical and graphical software to handle experimental data. Normal vs. non-normal variables. Summary statistics. Experimental design. Parametric and non-parametric analyses to compare two, more than two samples; factorial designs and interaction analyses. Analyses of nominal data. Relationship analyses: correlation, regression; parametric, non-parametric; linear, curvilinear. Presentation of data in a scientific paper, poster, seminar.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Design experiments appropriately
· Select the most appropriate statistical analyses for data generated
· Use analytical and graphical software
· Critically evaluate and interpret experimental data
· Present scientific data in a paper, poster or seminar.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (In class written examination 80 marks; problem sheets 60 marks; Presentation paper 60 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by School of BEES).
PS6008 Organic Fruit and Flower Production
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 12 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 6 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 1 x 1day(s) Other (Company visit).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To demonstrate how to produce fruit (soft, top, stone), flowers and foliage under organic growing conditions.
Module Content: Physiology of fruit production. Seedless vs. seeded fruits. Selection of pollinators. Pruning, training of fruit trees. Nutrition. Production of soft fruit. Role of bees; organic bee keeping. Cut flower production, floriculture. Forced flowering; manipulation of flowering date. Cut foliage production; juvenile vs. adult phase foliage.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate how to prune and train a fruit tree
· Plan a fruit-growing area with appropriate cultivars for maximum fruit set
· Describe the set-up and maintenance of a commercial floriculture unit
· Describe the principles and practice of bee-keeping.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (In class written examination 40 marks; Fruit area design 20 marks; Plan for floriculture unit 20 marks; Practical examination 20 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by School of BEES).
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 14 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 3 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 2 x 1day(s) Other (site visits).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To explain crop productivity from an ecosystem point of view.
Module Content: Whole-plant vs. population physiology. Outline of plant physiology (C, N assimilation, translocation, partitioning). Crop structure, growth and development. Biomass accumulation (NAR, LAI, LAD). Limiting factors; how to increase biomass production. Economic sink development, harvest index. Assimilate partitioning: how to increase economic yield. Cultivar comparisons. Cultural methods: planting date, inter-cropping.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the yield components of major horticultural crops
· Describe strategies for increasing economic yield in major horticultural crops
· Identify potential synergistic partners for inter-cropping
· Measure components of yield physiology in crops.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (In class written examination 50 marks; Projects 50 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by School of BEES).
PS6010 Organic Horticulture Research Project
Credit Weighting: 30
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2 and Teaching/Research Period 3.
No. of Students: Min 10, Max 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 2 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 1hr(s) Tutorials; 2 x 1day(s) Seminars; Other (Independent Research over 5 months).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To carry out an independent research project on a topic within organic horticulture.
Module Content: The students will carry out an independent research projects. The project requires students to carry out innovative research into an organic cropping issue, by planning, designing and executing a programme of investigative research, analysing and interpreting experimental data appropriately, and writing and submitting a bound research dissertation. In addition, each student will present a 30-minute seminar displaying their findings.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Initiate independent research on a topic within organic horticulture
· Produce a project plan, outlining experimental design and time frame for the research
· Collate information from a variety of published sources
· Collect original data on the project area
· Make a critical evaluation of published work on the topic.
· Carry out an in-depth analysis of original field and laboratory data
· Present findings from independent research in the form of word-processed documents, using IT skills
· Present a seminar on each research project
· Show awareness of health and safety issues associated with organic horticulture.
Assessment: Total Marks 600: Continuous Assessment 600 marks (1 x minor thesis 540 marks; Seminar presentation 60 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 50%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.
