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Graeme Martin
The Discover Best Practice Farming for a Sustainable 2050 Course is based on a clear vision: imagine best practice farming for 2050, start to implement these strategies now, all the while making sure it will still be profitable. At UWA we're doing just that with the Future Farm 2050 Project, set on a mixed-enterprise farm in Western Australia and we want you to learn how it can be done in your part of the world.
Read more
The Discover Best Practice Farming for a Sustainable 2050 Course is based on a clear vision: imagine best practice farming for 2050, start to implement these strategies now, all the while making sure it will still be profitable. At UWA we're doing just that with the Future Farm 2050 Project, set on a mixed-enterprise farm in Western Australia and we want you to learn how it can be done in your part of the world.
Read more
The Discover Best Practice Farming for a Sustainable 2050 Course is based on a clear vision: imagine best practice farming for 2050, start to implement these strategies now, all the while making sure it will still be profitable. At UWA we're doing just that with the Future Farm 2050 Project, set on a mixed-enterprise farm in Western Australia and we want you to learn how it can be done in your part of the world.
Although this course is based on agriculture, it's not only about farming. It is a multi-disciplinary course that addresses a wide range of issues confronting the industry, including rural communities, rural infrastructure and conservation of biodiversity in agriculture.
By completing this course you will understand that feeding and clothing the planet requires a multi-disciplinary approach
and upon completion you will be able to explain best practices of sustainable farming and apply them in new contexts.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/bs9snx/discover
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to the Course
Welcome to "Discover Best Practice Farming for a Sustainable 2050". In this first week you'll be introduced to the UWA Future Farm 2050 Project, an initiative by UWA in agricultural R&D and regional engagement. The project is centred on agriculture but you'll discover that feeding the world needs a mutli-disciplinary approach, and there are a wide range of issues confronting the agricultural industry which must be addressed if we are to cope with population projections for 2050.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to the Course
Welcome to "Discover Best Practice Farming for a Sustainable 2050". In this first week you'll be introduced to the UWA Future Farm 2050 Project, an initiative by UWA in agricultural R&D and regional engagement. The project is centred on agriculture but you'll discover that feeding the world needs a mutli-disciplinary approach, and there are a wide range of issues confronting the agricultural industry which must be addressed if we are to cope with population projections for 2050.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Suitable for advanced learners who wish to apply best practices to advance their own agricultural practices and farming methods
Suitable for those looking to go into farming as this course can be foundational
Teaches learners key concepts of farming through an industry-style framework that you can apply to your own work situations
Suitable for those who wish to learn about the multi-disciplinary nature of farming and how best practices can advance the field
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Reviews summary
Discover sustainable farming practices for 2050
According to learners, this course offers a broad and multi-disciplinary overview of the challenges and best practices for sustainable farming looking towards 2050. Students found the focus on future-proofing agriculture and the integration of ecological, social, and economic factors highly relevant and important. The course covers a wide range of topics, from soils and water to biodiversity and community infrastructure, often highlighting the UWA Future Farm 2050 Project as a key example. While providing a solid introduction to many concepts, some reviewers noted that the breadth of coverage means less depth in specific areas, suggesting it serves well as an overview but may require further study for detailed implementation.
Good overview, sometimes lacks detail.
"It's very broad, which is good for an overview, but it means specific topics aren't covered in much detail."
"While it introduces a lot of areas, it does so effectively, providing a solid base for further study."
"If you already have a background in one of the areas like soil science or livestock, you might find those sections too basic."
"It's a good awareness course, but maybe not enough for direct implementation."
"I learned a lot about the challenges and opportunities. The sections on weed management and plant breeding were useful, though brief."
Uses the Future Farm project.
"The Future Farm 2050 project insights were fascinating."
"The Future Farm example makes it concrete."
"I would have liked more practical examples relevant outside of Western Australia, but the core principles are universal and valuable."
Highly relevant for future agriculture.
"Highly relevant for anyone in the agricultural sector or policy."
"The focus on 2050 makes it highly relevant."
"Highly recommend this course for a comprehensive look at sustainable agriculture... A must for future-proofing farming."
"Good course addressing crucial issues. The sustainability aspect is well-integrated throughout."
Course covers a wide range of topics.
"An excellent overview of the many facets involved in truly sustainable agriculture looking towards 2050. The multi-disciplinary approach is key..."
"This course exceeded my expectations! It beautifully integrates ecological, social, and economic aspects of farming."
"I appreciated the modules on ecological cropping and people/infrastructure, which aren't always included in strictly 'farming' courses."
"Covers a wide range of important topics related to future farming... provides a solid base for further study."
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 Discover Best Practice Farming for a Sustainable 2050 with these
activities:
Soil and Water Management Exercises
Show steps
Engage in practical exercises that reinforce your understanding of soil and water management techniques, enabling you to apply them effectively in your own agricultural practices.
Show steps
-
Conduct soil tests to determine soil pH, nutrient levels, and texture.
-
Design and implement a crop rotation plan that improves soil health and reduces erosion.
-
Implement water conservation practices, such as drip irrigation or mulching.
-
Monitor soil and water quality to ensure the effectiveness of your management strategies.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis
Show steps
Read an autobiographical account that delves into the cultural and economic challenges of rural America, providing a context for the issues faced by rural communities in this course.
View
A Relevant Faith
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of the book.
-
Read the book in its entirety.
-
Take notes on key themes and ideas.
-
Reflect on how the book's insights relate to the course content.
Integrated Pest Management Tutorial Series
Show steps
Follow a series of video tutorials that demonstrate how to implement integrated pest management strategies, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and promoting a balanced ecosystem.
Browse courses on
Integrated Pest Management
Show steps
-
Watch the video tutorials on integrated pest management techniques.
-
Apply the techniques in your own agricultural practices.
-
Evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies and make adjustments as needed.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discussion Forum on Rural Infrastructure and Development
Show steps
Engage in peer discussions through an online forum to explore the challenges and opportunities related to rural infrastructure and development, gaining insights from diverse perspectives.
Show steps
-
Join the discussion forum.
-
Participate in ongoing discussions and share your own thoughts.
-
Read and respond to the contributions of other participants.
-
Synthesize your learnings and apply them to understanding the broader context of rural communities.
Farm Management Plan
Show steps
Develop a comprehensive plan that incorporates best practices from the course to guide the management of your own farm, farm business, or a specific area of interest.
Browse courses on
Farm Management
Show steps
-
Identify the goals and objectives for your farm or project.
-
Research best practices and sustainable farming techniques.
-
Develop a detailed plan that outlines your strategies and expected outcomes.
-
Implement the plan and monitor its effectiveness regularly.
-
Evaluate and make adjustments to the plan as needed.
Sustainable Livestock Production Workshop
Show steps
Attend an in-person or virtual workshop focused on sustainable livestock production, providing a hands-on opportunity to learn from experts and share knowledge with peers.
Browse courses on
Livestock Management
Show steps
-
Register for the workshop.
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the sessions.
-
Network with other participants and industry professionals.
-
Apply the knowledge gained to improve your own livestock production practices.
Infographic on Sustainable Farming Practices
Show steps
Create a visually appealing infographic that effectively conveys the key principles and benefits of sustainable farming practices for food production, environmental conservation, and economic viability.
Show steps
-
Gather data and information on sustainable farming practices.
-
Design the infographic using appropriate visuals, charts, and text.
-
Proofread and refine the infographic for clarity and impact.
-
Share your infographic on social media or relevant online platforms.
Soil and Water Management Exercises
Show steps
Engage in practical exercises that reinforce your understanding of soil and water management techniques, enabling you to apply them effectively in your own agricultural practices.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Conduct soil tests to determine soil pH, nutrient levels, and texture.
- Design and implement a crop rotation plan that improves soil health and reduces erosion.
- Implement water conservation practices, such as drip irrigation or mulching.
- Monitor soil and water quality to ensure the effectiveness of your management strategies.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis
Show steps
Read an autobiographical account that delves into the cultural and economic challenges of rural America, providing a context for the issues faced by rural communities in this course.
View
A Relevant Faith
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of the book.
- Read the book in its entirety.
- Take notes on key themes and ideas.
- Reflect on how the book's insights relate to the course content.
Integrated Pest Management Tutorial Series
Show steps
Follow a series of video tutorials that demonstrate how to implement integrated pest management strategies, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and promoting a balanced ecosystem.
Browse courses on
Integrated Pest Management
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Watch the video tutorials on integrated pest management techniques.
- Apply the techniques in your own agricultural practices.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies and make adjustments as needed.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discussion Forum on Rural Infrastructure and Development
Show steps
Engage in peer discussions through an online forum to explore the challenges and opportunities related to rural infrastructure and development, gaining insights from diverse perspectives.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join the discussion forum.
- Participate in ongoing discussions and share your own thoughts.
- Read and respond to the contributions of other participants.
- Synthesize your learnings and apply them to understanding the broader context of rural communities.
Farm Management Plan
Show steps
Develop a comprehensive plan that incorporates best practices from the course to guide the management of your own farm, farm business, or a specific area of interest.
Browse courses on
Farm Management
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the goals and objectives for your farm or project.
- Research best practices and sustainable farming techniques.
- Develop a detailed plan that outlines your strategies and expected outcomes.
- Implement the plan and monitor its effectiveness regularly.
- Evaluate and make adjustments to the plan as needed.
Sustainable Livestock Production Workshop
Show steps
Attend an in-person or virtual workshop focused on sustainable livestock production, providing a hands-on opportunity to learn from experts and share knowledge with peers.
Browse courses on
Livestock Management
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Register for the workshop.
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in the sessions.
- Network with other participants and industry professionals.
- Apply the knowledge gained to improve your own livestock production practices.
Infographic on Sustainable Farming Practices
Show steps
Create a visually appealing infographic that effectively conveys the key principles and benefits of sustainable farming practices for food production, environmental conservation, and economic viability.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather data and information on sustainable farming practices.
- Design the infographic using appropriate visuals, charts, and text.
- Proofread and refine the infographic for clarity and impact.
- Share your infographic on social media or relevant online platforms.
Career center
Learners who complete Discover Best Practice Farming for a Sustainable 2050 will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Agroecologist
Agroecologist
Agroecologists seek to design and manage agricultural systems that mimic the diversity, resilience, and productivity of natural ecosystems. This course will help build a foundation for a career as an Agroecologist through its topics on ecological cropping, conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, and water and soil management, which are at the core of this role.
Natural Resource Manager
Natural Resource Manager
Natural Resource Managers work to conserve and manage natural resources. This course covers topics such as water and soil management and the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, which are all areas in which Natural Resource Managers must have expertise.
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologists may be involved in research on threatened species, reforestation, or public policy surrounding conservation. The course covers the issues of land clearing, the importance of preserving biodiversity, and ecosystem services, which are all topics that a Conservation Biologist works with.
Agricultural Development Specialist
Agricultural Development Specialist
Agricultural Development Specialists work to improve the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities in developing countries. This course covers topics such as water and soil management and the principles of sustainable farming, which are all skills that an Agricultural Development Specialist needs.
Farm Manager
Farm Manager
Farm Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a farm. This course fits into the role of Farm Manager by providing topics on ecological cropping, versatile livestock systems, and the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, which are all areas in which managers must have knowledge and expertise.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists work with scientists, businesses, policymakers, and community groups to find ways to protect the environment. This course provides the foundation for someone interested in this field with the topics of water and soil management, ecological cropping, and the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture.
Agricultural Policy Analyst
Agricultural Policy Analyst
Agricultural Policy Analysts analyze and forecast agricultural trends and develop policies that support the agricultural sector. This course may be useful for this role as it provides an overview of the challenges facing the agricultural industry, as well as the principles of sustainable farming, which are at the core of policy and decision-making in this field.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants work with businesses and organizations to develop and implement sustainable practices. This course may be helpful for someone entering this role as it provides a foundation on the principles of sustainable farming, as well as the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, which are all topics that consultants in this role would need to be familiar with.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers find engineering-based solutions to solve environmental problems, from planning waste management systems to designing renewable energy systems. The course covers topics such as water and soil management, which are areas that Environmental Engineers must understand.
Agricultural Systems Analyst
Agricultural Systems Analyst
Agricultural Systems Analysts work to improve the efficiency and profitability of agricultural operations. This course may be useful for this role, as it covers topics in water and soil management, ecological cropping, versatile livestock systems, and the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, all of which are complex systems that analysts in this field must understand.
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultants work with businesses and organizations to help them comply with environmental regulations and reduce their environmental impact. This course may be helpful for those in this role as it covers topics on water and soil management, ecological cropping, and the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, which are all areas that Environmental Consultants need to understand.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans and policies for the development and use of land in urban areas. This course may be helpful for those interested in this role as it covers topics on the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, as well as the principles of sustainable farming, which are important factors to consider when planning for the future of urban areas.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologists study the biology and behavior of wildlife. This course may be useful for those interested in this role by providing a foundation on the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture. Understanding the impacts of agriculture on wildlife is an important part of wildlife management.
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Policy Analysts analyze and forecast environmental trends and develop policies that protect the environment. This course may be useful for someone in this role by providing a foundation on the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, as well as the principles of sustainable farming, which are important topics when developing environmental policy in the agricultural field.
Agricultural Education Specialist
Agricultural Education Specialist
Agricultural Education Specialists develop and deliver educational programs that help people learn about agriculture. This course may be useful for someone entering this role by providing a foundation on the principles of sustainable farming, as well as the conservation of biodiversity in agriculture, which are topics an educator in this field must be familiar with.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bs9snx/discover
Reading list
We've selected ten 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
Discover Best Practice Farming for a Sustainable 2050.
This useful reference for terms and definitions related to sustainable agriculture.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of agroecology, which is an essential component of sustainable farming.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil science and management, which is essential for sustainable farming.
Provides a comprehensive overview of ecological principles for sustainable agriculture, which is essential for understanding the complex interactions between farming and the environment.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the importance of people and infrastructure for sustainable agriculture, which is essential for understanding the social and economic aspects of farming.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the conservation of biodiversity in agricultural landscapes, which is essential for understanding the importance of biodiversity for sustainable farming.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of sustainable agriculture, which is essential for understanding the economic aspects of sustainable farming.
Provides a comprehensive overview of agriculture for the 21st century, which is essential for understanding the future of sustainable farming.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of food security, which is essential for understanding the future of sustainable farming.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the end of food, which is essential for understanding the future of sustainable farming.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bs9snx/discover
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Effort
7 weeks of study, 1-2 hours per week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Western Australia
Instructor
Graeme Martin
Language
English
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