BIOL9001 Aquaculture Practicum

2019

18

1 x 4-hour seminar weekly
1 x 5-week industry placement per semester

The topic will provide students with a practical opportunity to apply learned knowledge, concept and theory to commercial aquaculture industry. Students will be familiar with the requirements of commercial farms in operational management, water quality management, feeding, handling and harvesting practices within the aquaculture industry placement. At the completion of this topic, students will be expected to demonstrate their ability in managing the biological and business aspects of industry operation. This topic comprises five weeks of work experience at an approved industry sector and one week of report writing and oral presentation at the end. The work plan must be approved by the academic supervisor before placement.

Each Student is expected to:

1. Gain first-hand experience to understand the primary issues and constraints in the aquaculture industry
2. Learn skills and knowledge in practical aspects of aquaculture operations to complement and contextualise the information they have received in lectures, practicals and from their readings
3. Develop relationships with practising aquaculturists who will be valuable contacts and/or referees for the student
4. Identify critical biological, water quality, technological and business issues that constrain or enhance production
5. Develop skills in critical thinking and communication

At the completion of this topic, students are expected to be able to:

1. Apply skills and knowledge already acquired into a practical situation associated with the planning, design, construction, testing, evaluation, operation or maintenance of systems
2. Participate as a member of a team, and understand the roles and value of all members of that team, including professional scientists, engineers and other professionals involved in the business, and technical and support staff at work placement
3. Understand the overall manner in which an aquaculture venture is practised and managed
4. Further develop their own professional attitudes and communication skills with professionals