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Jennifer Vogel, Online Programs Coordinator

Agroforestry – the practice of growing trees and crops in interacting combinations – is recognized the world over as an integrated approach to sustainable land-use. Agroforestry systems, being multifunctional, facilitate not only the production of food and wood products but also provide a variety of ecosystem services such as climate-change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and soil quality improvement. This course teaches a broad overview of the most current research and best practices in global agroforestry.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction: A Synthesis of Scientific Developments in Agroforestry
Section 1 presents an overview of the history of scientific developments in agroforestry.
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Definitions, Concepts, Classification and Global Distribution
Section 2 investigates how we define and categorize agroforestry methods
Agroforestry Systems in the Tropics and Subtropics
Section 3 is an exploration of agroforestry topics for the tropics and subtropics
Agroforestry Systems in the Temperate Zones
Section 4 is an exploration of agroforestry topics for the temperate zones
Agroforestry (Tree) Species and Their Productivity
Agroforestry tree species and their improvement, uses and products.
Soil Management and Agroforestry
Proper soil management based on understanding the nature and property of soils is critical to the success of any land-use system.
Climate Change, Carbon Sequestration and Agroforestry Systems
The role of agroforestry systems in climate change mitigation.
Ecosystem Services of Agroforestry
A review of the many additional ecosystem services potentially provided by agroforestry systems.
Food Security, Sustainable Development Goals and Agroforestry
Agroforestry's roles in sustainable development and global food security efforts.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches agroforestry systems that cover climate-change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and soil quality improvement
Develops a comprehension of agroforestry practices for the tropics and subtropics, temperate zones, food security, and ecosystem services
Facilitates an understanding of agroforestry systems, their role in sustainable land use, and their multifunctional benefits
Provides a broad overview of current agroforestry research and best practices from around the globe
Develops knowledge and skills in managing soils and understanding their properties for successful agroforestry implementation
Requires scientific background and previous knowledge of agroforestry concepts
Presents agroforestry tree species, their improvement, uses, and products, which is beneficial for specialized learners like forestry professionals

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Agroforestry I: Principles and Practices with these activities:
Review foundational concepts in ecology and botany
Refresh your knowledge of foundational concepts in ecology and botany to strengthen your understanding of agroforestry principles.
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  • Review textbooks or online resources on ecology and botany
  • Attend lectures or workshops
  • Participate in discussions or forums
Practice reading and interpreting scientific literature
Practice reading and interpreting scientific literature to enhance your ability to critically evaluate agroforestry research findings.
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  • Identify and access relevant scientific literature
  • Read and analyze the literature, focusing on methods, results, and conclusions
  • Summarize and critique the findings
Review the basics of agroforestry
Brush up on the fundamentals of agroforestry, including its history, definitions, and classification, to strengthen your understanding of the course material.
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  • Read the course syllabus and introduction materials.
  • Review textbooks or online resources on agroforestry basics.
  • Take notes on key concepts and definitions.
  • Discuss the basics with classmates or a study group.
Nine other activities
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Organize and synthesize course materials for effective review
Compile and organize notes, assignments, and other course materials to enhance your understanding and retention.
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  • Gather all course materials, including notes, assignments, and quizzes
  • Organize the materials into a logical structure
  • Review and synthesize the materials to identify key concepts and connections
Review tree identification and biology
Refreshing your knowledge of tree identification and biology will provide a solid foundation for understanding agroforestry systems and their management.
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  • Review basic tree morphology and anatomy.
  • Use dichotomous keys or online resources to practice identifying common tree species.
  • Learn about the different types of tree growth forms and their ecological significance.
Explore online tutorials on agroforestry techniques
Seek out and engage with online resources that provide step-by-step guidance on various agroforestry techniques, expanding your practical knowledge and refining your skills.
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  • Search for online tutorials or workshops on agroforestry techniques.
  • Follow the tutorials, taking notes and practicing the techniques.
  • Discuss your experiences and learnings with others.
Test your agroforestry knowledge with practice questions
Engage in practice questions to reinforce your understanding of agroforestry concepts and principles.
Show steps
  • Access online or printed practice questions
  • Solve the questions to test your knowledge
  • Review your answers and identify areas for improvement
Develop a poster or infographic on the benefits of agroforestry
Create a visual representation of the advantages of agroforestry, showcasing its ecological, economic, and social benefits to reinforce your understanding and communicate the importance of this practice.
Browse courses on Agroforestry Systems
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  • Research and gather information on the benefits of agroforestry.
  • Design and create a poster or infographic using software or online tools.
  • Present or share your poster or infographic with others.
Practice designing and implementing agroforestry systems
Initiate a project that challenges you to create, implement, and evaluate an agroforestry system tailored to a specific site.
Browse courses on Agroforestry Systems
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  • Identify a suitable site and define project objectives
  • Research and select appropriate agroforestry species
  • Design the system layout and planting plan
  • Implement the system and establish the plants
  • Monitor and evaluate the system's performance
Join a study group or online forum for agroforestry discussions
Engage in collaborative discussions and exchange ideas with peers, strengthening your understanding through diverse perspectives and collective problem-solving.
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  • Join an online forum or study group focused on agroforestry.
  • Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your insights.
  • Collaborate with others on projects or assignments.
  • Attend virtual or in-person meetups organized by the group.
Analyze real-world agroforestry case studies
Engage in critical analysis of practical agroforestry implementations by examining case studies to observe how principles and concepts are applied in real-world scenarios.
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  • Identify and gather case studies of agroforestry projects.
  • Analyze the case studies, focusing on the implementation, challenges, and outcomes.
  • Write a summary or presentation on your analysis.
Attend a workshop on agroforestry design and implementation
Immerse yourself in a hands-on workshop environment where you can learn directly from experts, gain practical skills, and network with professionals in the field, enhancing your understanding and ability to apply agroforestry principles.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a workshop on agroforestry design and implementation.
  • Participate actively in the workshop, taking notes and practicing techniques.
  • Network with other participants and experts.

Career center

Learners who complete Agroforestry I: Principles and Practices will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Agroforestry Extension Agent
Agroforestry Extension Agents provide education and technical assistance to farmers and landowners on the principles and practices of agroforestry. They may also work on projects such as agroforestry research, demonstration projects, and policy development. This course would be helpful for Agroforestry Extension Agents because it provides an in-depth overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry. This knowledge can help Agroforestry Extension Agents to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable agriculture and to provide effective education and technical assistance to farmers and landowners.
Forestry Technician
Forestry Technicians conduct a variety of tasks related to the management and protection of forests. These tasks may include planting trees, collecting data on tree growth and health, and conducting controlled burns. This course would be helpful for Forestry Technicians because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is the practice of growing trees and crops in interacting combinations. This knowledge can help Forestry Technicians to better understand the role of trees in forest ecosystems and how to manage forests in a sustainable way.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists conduct scientific research to identify and solve environmental problems. They may study the effects of pollution on air, water, and soil, or they may develop new methods for protecting the environment. This course may be helpful for Environmental Scientists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is an integrated approach to sustainable land-use. This knowledge can help Environmental Scientists to better understand the role of agroforestry in protecting the environment.
Soil Scientist
Soil Scientists study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. They may conduct research on soil fertility, soil erosion, or soil contamination. This course may be helpful for Soil Scientists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve soil quality. This knowledge can help Soil Scientists to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable land management.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects design outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and campuses. They may also work on the design of green roofs and other sustainable building projects. This course may be helpful for Landscape Architects because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve the sustainability of landscapes. This knowledge can help Landscape Architects to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable landscape design.
Environmental Planner
Environmental Planners develop and implement plans to protect the environment. They may work on projects such as land use planning, environmental impact assessment, and climate change mitigation. This course may be helpful for Environmental Planners because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve environmental quality. This knowledge can help Environmental Planners to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable planning.
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system. They may conduct research on climate change, climate variability, and the impacts of climate change on human society and the environment. This course may be helpful for Climate Scientists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can mitigate climate change. This knowledge can help Climate Scientists to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable climate change mitigation.
Soil Conservationist
Soil Conservationists develop and implement plans to protect soil resources. They may work on projects such as soil erosion control, soil fertility management, and soil remediation. This course may be helpful for Soil Conservationists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve soil quality. This knowledge can help Soil Conservationists to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable soil conservation.
Horticulturist
Horticulturists grow and care for plants. They may work in greenhouses, nurseries, or gardens. This course may be helpful for Horticulturists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve plant growth. This knowledge can help Horticulturists to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable horticulture.
Crop Scientist
Crop Scientists conduct research on the production, improvement, and protection of crops. They may develop new crop varieties, study crop diseases, or investigate the effects of climate change on crop yields. This course may be helpful for Crop Scientists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve crop yields. This knowledge can help Crop Scientists to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable agriculture.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They may work on projects such as water purification, air pollution control, and waste management. This course may be helpful for Environmental Engineers because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve environmental quality. This knowledge can help Environmental Engineers to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable engineering.
Plant Geneticist
Plant Geneticists study the genetic makeup of plants. They may conduct research on plant breeding, plant diseases, or plant evolution. This course may be helpful for Plant Geneticists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve the genetic diversity of plants. This knowledge can help Plant Geneticists to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable agriculture.
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologists study the conservation of plants and animals. They may work on projects such as habitat restoration, species protection, and wildlife management. This course may be helpful for Conservation Biologists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve biodiversity. This knowledge can help Conservation Biologists to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable conservation.
Agronomist
Agronomists study the production, improvement, and management of crops and soils. They may work on projects such as crop breeding, soil fertility, and irrigation. This course may be helpful for Agronomists because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve crop yields and soil quality. This knowledge can help Agronomists to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable agriculture.
Water Resource Manager
Water Resource Managers develop and implement plans to manage water resources. They may work on projects such as water conservation, water quality protection, and flood control. This course may be helpful for Water Resource Managers because it provides an overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry, which is a land-use system that can improve water quality and quantity. This knowledge can help Water Resource Managers to better understand the role of agroforestry in sustainable water resource management.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Agroforestry I: Principles and Practices.
Provides a comprehensive overview of agroforestry in the temperate zones. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of agroforestry principles and practices, with a focus on their application in sustainable land management. It covers a wide range of topics, including soil management, climate change mitigation, and ecosystem services.
Provides a detailed overview of the principles and practices of agroforestry. It useful reference for anyone interested in learning more about this topic.
Valuable resource for anyone interested in creating a more sustainable and just food system.

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