Module Description

This module introduces students to the many and diverse ways in which land is utilised especially within the rural economy. The student will gain a broad understanding of how these are inter-related and the many considerations for sustainability, practical management, and providing employment and career opportunities this brings. Contemporary issues that affect rural and land-based activities will be explored from the many viewpoints of stakeholders, and students will have an opportunity to investigate how their own particular interest in rural land use would be impacted by current and proposed recommendations. Such viewpoints will include political, social, economic, environmental, technological and public perception.

During this module students will develop their skills of evidence selection and use, and will have the opportunity to practice reasoning skills.

It will consider the factors underpinning land use and tenures in rural areas: soil types, climate and climate change, water nature, conservation, landscape, countryside policies and planning and development opportunities in the countryside, with particular emphasis on farm diversification, and their effect on land use decisions on farms and rural estates.