208-338 Special Studies

This subject is available to students who have completed all 100 and 200 level core subjects of 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.

Students who complete this subject should be able to demonstrate:

• in-depth knowledge of a specific contemporary topic in agriculture and land management;

• the ability to analyse and report on the topic in a manner appropriate to the methodology developed; and

• an advanced capability for development of processes for acquisition, management, analysis, integration and interpretation of data and information.

The assessment structure for each student is specified in the study proposal and must be approved by the subject coordinator. It would normally consist of two assignments (each 5000 words) and an oral report (30 minutes) on a completed activity or investigation.