1. Handbook
  2. Subjects
  3. Agricultural Systems Analysis

Agricultural Systems Analysis (AGRI30003)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

You’re viewing the 2019 Handbook:
Or view archived Handbooks
You’re currently viewing the 2019 version of this subject

Overview

Availability
Semester 2
FeesLook up fees

Effective management of agricultural systems requires an appreciation of the context in which that management is carried out. This context may be predominantly social, environmental or commercial or combinations thereof. The application of scientific knowledge in conjunction with an appreciation of context, individual- or societal-goals is the domain of systems analysis and thinking. This subject aims to develop the skills required to analyse these interactions and support decision-making in agricultural enterprises. Students will examine real world situations, and align the scientific with the social. Assessment work will see students required to clearly identify problems to be solved, analyse options for solving the problems and then provide evidence based assessment to support their decisions. It is designed to enable students to work effectively with the owners and managers of agricultural businesses in bringing about change in their system.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students will have gained:

  • A basic understanding of agricultural systems theory and practice
  • Experience in practical situation analysis and skills in problem solving, in 'real world' settings
  • An understanding of the economic framework that underpins agricultural industries
  • The opportunity to apply knowledge gained earlier in their course to solving practical problems associated with Agriculture.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should have developed their:

  • Problem solving and analytical skills
  • Capacity to tackle unfamiliar and complex problems
  • Ability to think systemically and integrate knowledge from different disciplines
  • Communication skills, through written and oral presentations to a ‘client’
  • Quantitative analysis skills
  • Ability to plan work, be efficient in time management and deliver results within a prescribed time line

Last updated: 20 March 2025