791-013 Special Studies

This subject is only available to students who have completed all first- and second-year level core subjects in their course.

The subject encourages independent, critical thought and self-directed enquiry. Students should develop their ability to plan work and use available time effectively. This is an individualised subject which enables students to pursue studies in areas of agriculture and related fields, not otherwise covered in the normal subjects offered within the degree structure.

The student must provide a rationale for the study in terms of the objectives of the course and their own objectives. A proposed study program must be devised with a specific lecturer and approved by the coordinator. The program must demonstrate availability of expertise within the institute or from industry to provide guidance to the student, feasibility of the study within the constraints of resources and time, necessity of the study to the student's overall academic objectives, limits of the study in topics and depth of study, industry input necessary to complete the study, the level of academic rigor is appropriate to 300-level of study, methods of assessment.

The students must be able to nominate an ILFR academic staff member as a supervisor, who has the necessary expertise to supervise the study, or who is able to supervise the study in conjunction with a cooperating, outside expert. The student, with the supervisor must prepare a written contract which includes the objectives of the study, a timeline for completion and a clear statement of the assessment requirements and calculation of the final grade. The contract must be approved by the subject coordinator.

To be advised.