Agroecology
Social and Biological Factors in Sustainable Agriculture -- Biology/Sociology

FALL SEMESTER

Academic Focus

Food--or the lack of it--is probably the most important challenge facing the poor. This course looks at the problem of sustainable food production by examining agroecology--sustainable farming based on ecological principles. This course includes extensive field studies of both upland and lowland agriculture and communities.

Learning outcomes

• Understanding of the key issues in sustainable agriculture and agroecology
• Understanding the biological processes within agroecosystems
• Knowledge of significant plants used in agroforests and agroecological farms
• Understanding of the sociological dynamics related to agriculture for both upland and lowland peoples of Northern Thailand
• Ability to successfully carry out the basic tasks related to sustainable agriculture, including composting, natural pesticide production, gardening skills and related tasks
• Biological field survey methods, especially as related to agroforests and integrated farming
• Sociological survey methods, including competency in village-level surveys of farmers
• Proficiency with the tools of field research, including using a GPS during farm and village surveys, ability to carry out basic socioeconomic surveys in Thai, etc.
• Ability to carry out cross-farm and cross-village transect surveys
• Knowledge of the struggles related to creating sustainable communities and people's movements related to sustainable agriculture

Experiential Field Study Components

Agroecological on-farm research (soil and plant surveys), working in the fields of village host families, organic composting, agroforest plant identification, etc.

Living situation

On-site hostel at agroecology farm, Northern Thai village host families, Lahu and Palong tribal village host families.

Modes of travel
Van to sites, river boat (longtail), limited backpacking, extensive hiking.

Location(s)

Fang (Chiang Mai Province), Mae Taa (Lampun Province).