2024/25 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

BLGY5235M Crop Science & Plant Biotechnology

30 creditsClass Size: 30

Module manager: Professor Urwin
Email: P.E.Urwin@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Module replaces

BIOL5282M Crop Science and Sustainable Agriculture

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module addresses areas of current research related to crop science and sustainable agriculture. It focuses on the goals of sustainable agriculture, and how crops can be modified to meet this goal. Some of the topics covered are: how improved crops are produced through breeding and biotechnological methods, how to improve resource use efficiency in crops, how to improve crop performance and how to improve yield. It is delivered through lectures and practicals on the basics of biotechnology, coupled with seminars and tutorials to develop knowledge of the current research in this area. Major aspects include critical appraisal of the scientific literature and the development of an innovative proposal to create sustainable crops.

Objectives

To inform a better understanding of the aims of crop science and sustainable agricultural research and the biotechnological methods by which crops can be modified to be more sustainable.

Learning outcomes
On completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Identify and explain the aims of crop science within the field of sustainable agriculture;
2. Describe the methods by which crops can be modified to improve performance, sustainability and yield, and carry out appropriate biotechnological techniques.
3. Evaluate and critique current research in the fields of crop science, biotechnology and sustainable agriculture;
4. Propose, plan and scientifically support novel opportunities for crop science to create more sustainable agriculture;
5. Illustrate sustainable agricultural concepts to inform or persuade a variety of audiences.

Skills outcomes
Further develop presentational skills and the ability to communicate science.
Develop analytical and logical experimental thinking.
Improve writing skills.

Syllabus

This module aims to develop skills and knowledge in the application of biotechnology in sustainable agriculture and crop production. It encompasses both practical skills and taught material.

The module progresses from content-focussed lectures and practicals to provide the underlying biotechnological theory to self-directed learning about their individual areas of interest. It consists of practicals, lectures and small group teaching sessions.

In the practical sessions, which are supported by lectures, students will learn how to address challenges in crop science and agriculture using biotechnological techniques. Seminars will introduce current research in areas of crop science and biotechnology which aim to inform and inspire students to write a proposal based on their idea. Assessments will be completed with support from 4 tutorial sessions.

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lectures	7	1.00	7.00
seminars	7	1.00	7.00
Tutorials	4	2.00	8.00
Practicals	6	3.00	18.00
Private study hours			260.00
Total Contact hours			40.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			300.00

Private study

Private study will involve students undertaking background reading to support and widen understanding of the course material, and preparation of work for assessments. The latter involves preparation of a poster presentation and a grant proposal. In addition, students will have to complete work in advance of practical sessions to ensure that they are prepared for these sessions.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Lab books will be produced online and checked regularly to ensure progress. These will contain MCQs designed to allow students to check their knowledge throughout the practical aspects of the module. In addition, students will receive feedback from staff and their peers about their grant proposal ideas during the poster session and drop in tutorials.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
In-course Assessment	Grant proposal (3,000 words)	40.00
Poster Presentation	Poster with 5-10 minute oral presentation	30.00
Practical	Lab book to be completed	30.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 31/07/2024

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