AGA 181 - Introduction to Crop Science

Credit(s) 3.00
Lecture Hours: 3.00
This course introduces the student to basic structure and function, origin, classification, and the growth and development of crop plants. Fundamentals of photosynthesis, plant water use, plant nutrition, and the genetics that regulate plant growth, development, and responses to the environment will be covered.

SLOs:
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Understand basic principles of plant science at different trophic levels.
Describe plant growth and development, and plant structure.
Describe key energetic, chemical, and physical transformation in agroecosystems such as photosynthesis, respiration, water relations, and mineral nutrition.
Describe key principles of genetics and propogation.
Identify basic interactions among plant production, weather and climate, and soil.
Identify the ways in which crop science fits within its social context.
Identify the role of humans in agroecological systems.
Develop written and oral communication skills in order to persuade and inform an audience, using technically appropriate terminology.
Further develop computer skills using spreadsheets, databases, geographical information systems, and word processing to manage, interpret, and communicate information.
Further develop cooperative learning and working skills.
Gain an understanding and appreciation of the importance of becoming life long learners.