Print Syllabus

Syllabus

BI1481 Introduction to Plant Biology for Sustainable Production, 15.0 Credits

Introduktion till Växtbiologi för Hållbar Produktion

Subjects

Biology Science

Education cycle

Master’s level

Advanced study in the main field

Second cycle, has only first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Master’s level (A1N)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

Knowledge equivalent to 120 credits including:


- 90 credits biology or
- 60 credits biology and 30 credits agricultural science, horticultural science or forest sciences
- English 6

Objectives

The course objectives are to give an introduction to advanced university studies, provide an overview of the syllabus of the master-program, its content, and structure, provide the students with working skills that prepare them for further studies and future work.

After completing the course the students should be able to:

• give an account of the basic biological conditions for plant production.
• with relevance to the subject area of the program, look up, compile, and present information on the possibilities and limitations of plant production, in writing and in speech.
• distinguish and form an opinion on ethical issues coupled with scientific activities within the subject area of the master program.
• give an account of basic philosophical conceptions within science and the scientific method.
• give an account of possibilities and limitations of the scientific subject area of the program to contribute to sustainable development.

Content

Subject-related content

The course will give an introduction to the master program Plant Biology for Sustainable Production and its two different specializations: "Plant Protection and Plant Breeding" and "Abiotic and Biotic interactions of Plants". The course will provide the students with a basic foundation for future University studies at the master level and a comprehension of the basic biological conditions for plant production. The course lectures, exercises, laboratory sessions and seminars cover:

• basic plant biology, including plant physiology, metabolomics, genetics, and molecular genetics.
• conditions for plant production, covering agriculture and horticulture.
• an introduction to ethical argumentation, sustainable development, science philosophy and the scientific method and science communication.
• scientific presentations, in oral and in writing.

Teaching formats

To further student learning and promote discussion, a variety of methods are used:

Including lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions and discussions

The course focuses on the following generic competencies:

• Information competence
• Oral communication
• Written communication
• Problem solving
• Critical thinking

Seminars and Laboratory exercises are compulsory.
Collaboration with the surrounding community takes place through:

Discussions on how plant biology and related areas can contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Passed mandatory activities and passed exam.

• 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 assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

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

SLU is environmentally certified according to ISO 14001. A large part of our courses cover knowledge and skills that contribute positively to the environment. To further strengthen this, we have specific environmental goals for the education. Students are welcome to suggest actions regarding the course’s content and implementation that lead to improvements for the environment. For more information, see webpage www.slu.se.

Responsible department

Department of Plant Biology

Cooperating departments: