Overview

This module provides you with a broad understanding of the workings of food systems by taking a systems thinking approach. In the first part of the module (unit 1 & 2) you are guided through the different concepts related to food systems and food security. In the second part (units 3 & 4), the module focuses on the drivers that affect changes to the food system and how they can be managed.

The module is organised in the following units:

Unit 1 Introduction to Food Systems Unit 2 Diets and Nutrition Unit 3 Key Drivers of Food System’s Change Unit 4 Sustainably Balancing Supply and Demand

The module covers subtopics such as production and consumption, details of nutrition and malnutrition, as well as different drivers that affect the system as we know it, such as geopolitical perturbations, and changes in demographics and climate changes. The module ends by covering the subtopics of dealing with food waste, price volatility and responisble use of old and new technologies.

This module provides you with a broad understanding of the workings of food systems by taking a systems thinking approach. In the first part of the module (unit 1 & 2) you are guided through the different concepts related to food systems and food security. In the second part (units 3 & 4), the module focuses on the drivers that affect changes to the food system and how they can be managed.

The module is organised in the following units:

Unit 1 Introduction to Food Systems Unit 2 Diets and Nutrition Unit 3 Key Drivers of Food System’s Change Unit 4 Sustainably Balancing Supply and Demand

The module covers subtopics such as production and consumption, details of nutrition and malnutrition, as well as different drivers that affect the system as we know it, such as geopolitical perturbations, and changes in demographics and climate changes. The module ends by covering the subtopics of dealing with food waste, price volatility and responisble use of old and new technologies.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold (Pass) -Be able to demonstrate, with few factual errors, knowledge of a range of food systems and how they have developed. Show an understanding of the external factors affecting food supply and how they can be manipulated.

-good (Merit) In addition to the above, demonstrate an ability think critically about the interactions between various components of the global food system, and be able to suggest strategies for adapting food systems to changed circumstances in order to sustainably increase food security. Show evidence of additional background reading around the topic.

-excellent (Distinction) In addition to the above, be able to present well-reasoned arguments for and against the implementation of specific management practices to sustainably increase food security and improve food systems, including trade-offs between them, and demonstrating evidence of wide reading around the subject and an ability to analyse and synthesise arguments and information.

Learning Outcomes

• analyse the components of food security and the mechanisms that support equitable and sustainable access to food.

• critically discuss food systems and how they have evolved.

• describe the failures in food systems that lead to food insecurity and be able to critically evaluate alternative remedies.

• evaluate of the drivers of change affecting food systems at different scales.