Module Provider: |
School of Agriculture, Policy and Development |
Number of credits: |
10 [5 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
I (Intermediate) |
Terms in which taught: |
Spring |
Module Convenor: |
Dr
A
Bailey |
Pre-requisites: |
|
Co-requisites: |
|
Modules excluded: |
|
Current from: |
2005/6 |
Aims:
This module intends to provide the student with an understanding of information technology in agriculture, the agri-food industry and related enterprises.
The module comprises two themes:
1. The role of information technology for the enterprise and its implementation.
This first theme considers the advantages and disadvantages of IT in agricultural business and related activities. What drives the adoption of e-business practice? What are the limitations to uptake and also to capability? The course considers IT across the agribusiness spectrum and identifies technologies suitable for application in these different areas.
Some basic IT theory is taught as a basis for further discussion of emerging technologies and trends. The internet is given particular emphasis as an ever changing and crucial component of modern agribusiness. Best practice in developing web sites for business is taught and also forms the basis of classroom discussion. The main coursework exercise will involve a critical appraisal of a case study website, including making recommendations on its construction and design.
2. Case studies.
Successful application of IT in agribusiness is demonstrated through real world case studies. As part of this aim, students will receive lectures from outside speakers and have opportunity for debate to draw further on their expertise. Case studies include Decision Support Systems for livestock and crop enterprises, e-commerce applications and IT strategy for food distribution and marketing. Electronic banking and finance is considered in the context of wide ranging business requirements. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that students will have the following skills:
IT skills:
Demonstrate an understanding of the importance and specific roles of IT in agriculture and food industries
Demonstrate an understanding of the principles behind IT and e-business technology, including web design
Core skills developed:
Report writing- developing both presentational and analytical skills
Analytical thinking - developing numeracy, literacy, reasoning and appraisal skills |
Additional outcomes:
|
Outline content:
Subjects covered will include the following:
IT in agriculture: basic principles
E-business: usability and best practice in web design
Website design: appraisal, construction and presentation
Software for agri-business and biological sciences, e.g. decision support, business control and financial management, GIS, research tools and models |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
There will be a series of ten contact sessions, each of two hours duration. These sessions will include lectures, seminars by visiting speakers, and in class exercises and discussion. A number of the exercises will be computer based. Students will be expected to present their thoughts on selected aspects of the module through discussion. |
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
|
10 |
|
| Tutorials/seminars |
|
|
|
| Practicals |
|
10 |
|
| Other contact(eg study visits) |
|
|
|
| Independent learning time (private study) |
|
40 |
|
| Directed learning time (web based exercises) |
|
40 |
|
| Total hours |
|
100 |
|
| |
|
|
|
| Number of essays or assignments |
|
2 |
|
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
|
|
|
|
Assessment:
Coursework:
A case study on website appraisal and design (50%)
An essay on IT and e-business (30%)
A computer based exercise highlighting the use of software in the sector (20%)
Relative percentage of coursework: 100%
Penalties for late submission:
Standard University rule applies: 10% marks deducted for work submitted up to one week late. Work submitted more than one week late will be awarded a zero mark.
Examinations:
None
Requirements for a pass:
40% overall course mark
Reassessment arrangements:
By re-examination in August/September |
staff
UoR Home