303369 (v.2) Agricultural Knowledge and Information Systems 302

Area:

Muresk Institute

Credits:

25.0

Contact Hours:

5.0

Seminar:

1 x 5 Hours Weekly

Syllabus:

Introduction to the theory, techniques and skills necessary for facilitating change in rural communities and communicating with people and businesses. Major topics include- principles of adult learning, factors influencing change, theory and methods for change, communicating with individuals and groups, planning and evaluating programs for change, organisational resource management planning systems, supply chain inter-organisational information management systems, operating a consultancy practice.

Unit Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit, students will have- Demonstrated appropriate skills, knowledge and understanding of the principles learnt in the subject such as, principles of adult learning, factors influencing change in rural communities, theoryand methods for implementing change, techniques for effective communication with individuals, techniques for effective facilitation and communication in groups, planning and evaluating program for change, organisational resource management planning systems, supply chain inter-organisational information management systems, operating a consultancy practice. Applied the above principles to the planning, implementation and evaluation of a small program for change. Analysed how and why organisational and supply chain information systems have changed over time. Independently write clear, readable, informative and imaginative reports and assignments. Enhance skills as reflective learners, deliver verbal presentations that are clear, concise, interesting and informative.

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:

Bennett, C.F., (1979), Analyzing Impacts of Extension Programs, Washington, Science and Education Administration, United States Department of Agriculture. Coutts, J. Hossain, D. Petheram, J. Millar, J. Gray, B. Hickey, A. and Thompson, L., (1996), Journal Reference Lists in Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Wodonga, Australasian Pacific Extension Service. Mortiss, P., (1993), Extension for Rural Change, 2nd ed, Queensland, Department of Primary Industries. Pretty, J.N., (1995), Regenerating Agriculture, London, Earthscan Publications. Van Beek, P., (1996), Monitoring and Evaluation of Extension in Australia: A Report of a Forum of the Australasian Pacific Extension Network, Albury Wodonga, November 30 - December 1, 1995, Wodonga, Australian Pacific Network Extension. Van den Ban, A. W, and Hawkins, H.S., (1996), Agricultural Extension, 2nd ed, Oxford, Blackwell Science.

Unit Texts:

Blackburn, D.J., (1994), Extension Handbook: Processes and Practices, 2nd ed, Toronto, Thompson Educational Publishing.

Unit Assessment Breakdown:

Exam 20 - 40%, Journals 5 - 10%, Paper 10 - 30%, Report on change project 10 - 30%, Seminar presentation 10-20%, System Analysis 10 - 30%. This is by grade/mark assessment.

Year	Location	Period	Internal	Area External	Central External
2004	Bentley Campus	Semester 2	Y