Formal lectures will be complemented by practical field sessions that will allow for a balance of theory and hands on learning activities. Classroom activities will focus on the key performance indicators underpinning ruminant animal enterprises. Visiting lecturers will be used where appropriate to enhance the learning experience of the students and expose them to new concepts in animal production. Students will learn the hands-on management aspects (e.g. BCS) of animal production through farm based practical sessions.
Module Aim:
This module aims to introduce students to ruminant animal production in Ireland and the various challenges faced by the sector. Students will learn about the management principles that apply to animal production at farm level that improve the overall sustainability of the sector.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Demonstrate key skills that apply to animal production e.g. body condition scoring, locomotion scoring etc.
LO2
Understand the importance of pasture management in driving the profitability and sustainability of animal production
LO3
Be capable of discussing sustainability as it applies to animal production systems
LO4
Demonstrate a knowledge of ruminant animal production in Ireland
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Cattle production
Students will learn about the practical aspects of managing a herd of beef cattle
Dairy production
Students will learn about some of the practical management aspects of dairy production
Sheep production
Students will learn about the practical aspect of sheep production
Safety when working with animals
Through the practical sessions, the learner will be given instruction on and expected to demonstrate skills in the safe handling of animals including but not limited to- -Strategies to avoid zoonosis -Crush injuries when handling animals in confined areas -Risk to musculoskeletal system due to mishandling of animals -Dealing with high risk animals and -Strategies to mitigate against the risks when handling animals
Assessment Breakdown
%
Practical
50.00%
End of Module Formal Examination
50.00%
No Continuous Assessment
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Practical/Skills Evaluation
Students will complete reports on the outcomes of each practical session attended demonstrating skills acquired.
1,2
50.00
Sem 2 End
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Formal Exam
Terminal examination
1,2,3,4
50.00
End-of-Semester
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment