Presentations

PRE-TOUR COURSE PRESENTATIONS

The European Sustainable Ag course used The New Market Place in European Culture, Environmental and Social Values within the Food Chain by Eliot Glassheim, Jerry Nagel and Cees Roele as a foundation for discussing environmental, agricultural and market trends for Europe.

As part of the course, students researched and created a presentation on Integrated Pest Management and on Sustainable Agriculture. In addition, as preparation for the study trip component of the course, students researched history, culture and agricultural issues in the four countries visited.

Integrated Pest Management

Sustainable Agriculture

FINAL TOUR PRESENTATIONS

During the academic tours in each country, students asked questions, took notes and kept journals. During the final week, students divided into teams of 3-4 per country and prepared a report on observations. The reports were presented to Dr. Marion-Poll and Dr. Rajotte on the final day.

FINAL TERM PAPERS

Students wishing to receive credit for the course/study tour were required to complete a paper after returning to the United States. Papers answered the general question "How did the European sustainable agriculture tour change my view of the world?"

Students were also asked to address the following elements:

Begin with a brief description of the itinerary. Select three events (lecture, demonstration, experience) and describe its relevance to the competitiveness of European agriculture in a global context.

Based on what you learned on the trip, what historic, economic and governmental themes have affected European agriculture in the last 20 years?

Compare and contrast European and American agriculture and food systems based on your experiences in Europe. Include technological, economic and sociological factors.

Do you think that European agriculture will be more of a partner or competitor with the U.S. in the future? Why?

What was the biggest misconception you had about European agriculture before the trip, and how were your ideas changed?

Did the class and tour change your plans for further education and career choices?

What should we have done differently to improve the class and the trip?

How can we encourage your peers to become more interested in European agriculture and research in the future?