303220 (v.2) Agribusiness Systems 101

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Area:	Muresk Institute
Credits:	25.0
Contact Hours:	4.25
Lecture:	1 x 3 Hours Weekly
Tutorial:	1 x 1 Hours Weekly
Fieldwork:	1 x 1 Hours Monthly
Syllabus:	Fundamentals of the agribusiness system. Exploration of the concepts of systems and systems analysis. Application of concepts to an analysis and evaluation of agribusiness systems, also known as supply or demand chains. Theory of consumer behaviour, marginal utility and indifference analysis, the law of diminishing marginal utility and equi-marginal principle.
Unit Outcomes:	Apply systems concepts to a selected agricultural, aqua-cultural, horticultural or viticultural industry and its associated processing, distribution and marketing activities. Identify, describe and evaluate the internal and external influences (constraints) on the total system and the sub-systems, and how each of the system components interacts with these influences. Recognise and explain the linkages between sub-systems, their relationship to the whole system and how the linkages can be optimised. Show an awareness of contemporary agribusiness issues, local, national and international, recognise how they impinge on the agribusiness system and how they may be resolved. Explain the demographic changes that have and are likely to influence, consumption of horticultural products. Communicate effectively using oral and written including computers and media. Make decisions about their academic time management and have developed decision-making skills associated with their program of study.
Text and references listed above are for your information only and current as of September 30, 2003. Please check with the unit coordinator for up-to-date information.
Unit References:	Rabo Bank World Industry Reports.
Unit Texts:	Wilson, J., (1995). Changing Agriculture: An Introduction to Systems Thinking. 2nd ed. Kenthurst, Kangaroo Press. Melotte, Y. and Moore, R., (1995). Economics. Sydney, Prentice-Hall.
Unit Assessment Breakdown:	Continuous Assessment 60%. Examination 40%. This is by grade/mark assessment.
Year Location Period Internal Area External Central External 2004 Bentley Campus Semester 1 Y