Syllabus

LU0084 Introduction to Rural Development, 15.0 Credits

Subjects

Education cycle

Advanced study in the main field

Grading scale

Language

Prior knowledge

Objectives

The course aims to provide students with an introduction to studies at SLU, the agronomy program in rural development and the professional role as an agronomist. The course also aims to give students an understanding of central concepts and theories on rural development. Emphasis is also given general skills, such as scientific writing, associated with employability in the future.

After completing the course, students should be able to:

• explain concepts and theories about the preconditions for rural development, including sustainable development

• discuss opportunities and challenges for rural areas in Sweden and the rest of the world

• describe the social organization of rural development and discuss interests and power relations, both locally and globally

• describe the natural resources sector, with a focus on agriculture and animal husbandry, and their role in society

• discuss the role of agriculture roles for rural development

• searching, critically process and discuss scientific literature, in speech and writing

• understand and use the criteria for scientific writing

Content

The course consists of a mix of lectures, seminars, study visits and project work, individual and in groups. The project work is presented orally or in writing and discussed during seminars.

The course, which is mandatory in the agronomy program in rural development, provides a broad introduction to the field rural development with its multidisciplinary nature. The course covers the preconditions for rural development, and the actors, interests, organization and power relationships that affect rural areas, both locally and globally. The course covers sustainable development and introduces ethics, agricultural history and the ‘farmer’s year’ (agricultural production year cycle). The course places particular emphasis on generic skills with a focus on written and oral communication, critical thinking, study skills and common elements for agronomists.

Grading form

Formats and requirements for examination

The course objectives are assessed through written assignments and oral presentations, and approved participation in compulsory parts.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.
• For the examination of a degree project (independent project), the examiner may also allow the student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Transitional provisions

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information