Advanced Diploma in Agriculture in Agricultural Production Management
Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Secondary Agriculture
Purpose and Rationale
Advanced Diploma in Agriculture: Agricultural Production Management
Purpose:
The purpose of this Advanced Diploma in Agriculture in Agricultural Production Management is to train and equip agriculturalists with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed to contribute to improving managerial capacity in systems, supply chain, and operational management related to agricultural production - with a particular focus on innovation for efficiency and adaptive capacity.
The curriculum is structured across five learning spaces in the context of agricultural production management:
- Policy: understanding the policy and legal issues and 'boundaries' for action.
- Practice: understanding and applying the most relevant practice.
- Analysis: Understanding the methods and principles of analysis.
- Tools: Understanding and applying the relevant tools.
- Work Integrated Learning: Internship in a relevant workplace with a formal learning programme.
Rationale:
The South African agricultural landscape is evolving, with a history of inequitable development that has marginalized many land users from the mainstream agricultural sector. The province, where the course is based, is a significant agricultural hub, known for citrus, subtropical fruit, nuts, vegetables, commercial forestry, and livestock. There is potential for expansion and increased contribution to GDP and livelihoods through smallholder farming.
The qualification aims to enhance production efficiency and adaptability, aligning with national strategies for agricultural development. With a focus on innovation and meeting the demands of the transforming agricultural sector, learners will be prepared to contribute to South Africa's agricultural objectives and economy. The course also sets a pathway for further education in agriculture at the university level.
The qualification targets learners interested in working with farmers, producers, and processors, providing them with essential skills for employment or consultancy in the agricultural sector. The program is designed to meet the needs of the labor market and technology industry, emphasizing practical knowledge and skills relevant to production and product management within the broader agricultural development agenda of South Africa.
Specialists in technology development, research, production systems, and supply chain management are crucial for the agricultural sector's advancement, and this qualification aims to produce professionals who can work effectively in both profit-oriented and developmental settings.
The Advanced Diploma in Agriculture in Agricultural Production Management bridges the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, preparing learners to contribute meaningfully to the agricultural sector and economic growth of South Africa.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate integrated knowledge of effective agricultural production management (plants and animals) and of strategic management and the principles and practices of management for development and how these relate to operational and supply chain management.
- Evaluate types of knowledge and explanations typical within the areas of agricultural, operational management and systems development and management.
- Show an understanding of a range of methods of enquiry in areas of agricultural production management (related to crop and animal production), and their suitability to specific investigations.
- Identify, analyse, evaluate, critically reflect on and address complex problems, applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments in the context of agricultural production and operational and supply chain management.
- Take decisions and act ethically and professionally regarding issues that are relevant to agricultural production and operational and supply chain systems, development and management.
- Develop appropriate processes of information gathering for a given context or use in agricultural production and operational and supply chain systems.
- Develop and communicate ideas and opinions in well-formed arguments, using appropriate professional and occupational discourse relevant to agricultural production and operational and supply chain systems, development and management.
- Manage processes in familiar and unfamiliar and variable contexts, recognising that problem solving is context- and system-bound, and does not occur in isolation in situations.
- Identify, evaluate and address learning needs in a self-directed manner, and facilitate collaborative learning processes particularly in contexts that are relevant to agricultural production and operational and supply chain systems, development and management.
- Take full responsibility for work, decision-making and use of resources, and limited accountability for the decisions and actions of others in varied or ill-defined contexts including commercial and development agricultural settings.
Assessment Criteria
The assessment criteria specified align with the exit level outcomes of incorporating Agricultural Production Management knowledge into planning projects and assignments. The criteria emphasize a deep understanding of agricultural production management, including reviewing existing processes and incorporating the latest ideas and practices. Students are expected to select and apply theories and processes across diverse farms to enhance success.
Furthermore, students are required to formulate research questions, choose appropriate methodologies, analyze and synthesize data, and present findings effectively in project reports. Ethical considerations in agricultural production processes are also highlighted, with students developing plans that prioritize ethics. The use of tools for information access, data analysis, and communication is integral to the assessment process, tailored to specific audiences.
A systems approach is encouraged, linking individual components in management plans for Agricultural Production Management. The holistic evaluation of existing plans is crucial, ensuring comprehensive techniques are applied. Identifying learning needs for production, operational, and supply chain systems is emphasized, contributing to a well-rounded understanding of agricultural management.
In terms of assessment practices, the institution prioritizes fairness, transparency, and rigor. Formative assessment methods such as tests, assignments, projects, and case studies are utilized, while summative assessments consist of written papers requiring clear communication of learning outcomes. Both internal and external moderation/examination processes are implemented, with at least 50% of assessment externally examined to maintain quality standards.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Advanced Diploma
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 120
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.