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CRP507Agricultural Sciences2 Unitsintermediate

Farming Systems

This course introduces students to farming systems, emphasizing the interplay between farmers and their environment. It explores the classification of farming systems and the physical, biological, and socio-economic factors influencing them. Students will examine tropical small-scale farming systems, crop-based systems, and the role of research in developing sustainable agricultural practices. The course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of farming systems and their sustainable development.

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25h
Study Time
13
Weeks
2h
Per Week
basic
Math Level
Course Keywords
Farming SystemsSmall Scale FarmingCrop-Based SystemsAgricultural ResearchSustainable Agriculture

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
Math Level
Basic Math
🔬
Learning Type
Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Farming Systems Concepts

2

Classification of Farming Systems

3

Physical Factors

4

Biological Factors

5

Socio-economic Factors

6

Tropical Small Scale Farming Systems

7

Crop-Based Farming Systems

8

Farming Systems Research

Total Topics8 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Rural Sociology

Farming Systems Research

General Agriculture

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Agricultural Extension Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Farm Manager

Apply your skills in this growing field

Agricultural Researcher

Apply your skills in this growing field

Agribusiness Consultant

Apply your skills in this growing field

Sustainable Agriculture Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

AgricultureAgribusinessEnvironmental ConservationRural DevelopmentGovernment Agencies

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1:

2h

Unit 1: Concepts, Definition and Classification of Farming Systems

2 study hours
  • Understand the concept of farming systems.
  • Define farming systems and their components.
  • Identify the various classes of farming systems.
Week
2

Module 1:

2h

Unit 2: Factors that Determine Farming Systems: Physical, Biological and Socio-economic

2 study hours
  • Identify physical factors like topography and climate.
  • Explain the impact of biological factors such as crops and livestock.
  • Analyze socio-economic factors influencing farming systems.
Week
3

Module 2:

3h

Unit 1: Characteristics of Tropical Small Scale Farming Systems

3 study hours
  • Identify characteristics of tropical small-scale farming systems.
  • Discuss the importance of small-scale farming.
  • Describe different types of small-scale farming systems.
Week
4

Module 3:

3h

Unit 1: Important Crop-Based Farming Systems

3 study hours
  • Explain crop-based farming systems.
  • Identify various types of crop-based farming systems.
  • Discuss the importance of different cropping systems.
Week
5

Module 4:

3h

Unit 1: Farming Systems Research: Descriptive and Prescriptive

3 study hours
  • Describe the historical perspective of agricultural research in Nigeria.
  • Understand the concept of On-Farm Adaptive Research (OFAR).
  • Outline the steps involved in conducting OFAR.
Week
6

Module 1:

2h

Review of Module 1

2 study hours
  • Review concepts, definitions, and classifications of farming systems.
  • Discuss the factors determining farming systems.
  • Prepare for Tutor-Marked Assignment (TMA).
Week
7

Module 2:

2h

Review of Module 2

2 study hours
  • Review characteristics of tropical small-scale farming systems.
  • Discuss the importance of small-scale farming.
  • Prepare for Tutor-Marked Assignment (TMA).
Week
8

Module 3:

2h

Review of Module 3

2 study hours
  • Review important crop-based farming systems.
  • Discuss the importance of cropping systems.
  • Prepare for Tutor-Marked Assignment (TMA).
Week
9

Module 4:

2h

Review of Module 4

2 study hours
  • Review farming systems research methodologies.
  • Discuss descriptive and prescriptive research approaches.
  • Prepare for Tutor-Marked Assignment (TMA).
Week
10

All Modules

3h

Course Catch-Up and Assignment Finalization

3 study hours
  • Complete any outstanding assignments.
  • Participate in online forums to discuss challenging concepts.
  • Review all course materials.
Week
11

Module 1:

3h

Focused Review: Farming Systems Concepts and Definitions

3 study hours
  • Focus on understanding key definitions and classifications.
  • Review examples of farming systems in different communities.
  • Practice defining farming systems in your own words.
Week
12

Module 1:

3h

Focused Review: Factors Influencing Farming Systems

3 study hours
  • Review the impact of physical, biological, and socio-economic factors.
  • Create a mind map linking these factors to specific farming systems.
  • Discuss real-world examples of these factors in your local community.
Week
13

All Modules

4h

Final Revision and Exam Preparation

4 study hours
  • Synthesize all course materials.
  • Create a comprehensive study guide.
  • Participate in a mock exam.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create concept maps linking physical, biological, and socio-economic factors to farming systems.

2

Review case studies of successful and unsuccessful farming systems.

3

Practice defining and classifying different types of farming systems.

4

Focus on understanding the steps involved in On-Farm Adaptive Research (OFAR).

5

Review past tutor-marked assignments and identify areas for improvement.

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