Study Guide

Objective

Explain the principle of whole crop utilization and the biomass value pyramid
Describe how biobased plastics and biocomposites alternatives can be used
Awareness biomass feedstock process pathway(s)
Differentiate between different forms of biorefinery enterprise
Utilize the Ansoff matrix in conjunction with biobased business development

Content

This introductory online course consists of a number of interconnected modules that underpin the keys themes and technologies essential for the transition to a more sustainable and bio-economic future.

Location and time

Students are free to complete the materials in their own time within the allotted six-week time period.

However, there are fixed times related to the initial Welcome session (wk1) and the Final poster session (wk6). These dates are found via Peppi and Tuudo.

Materials

Learning materials are supplied within the online course documentation, with further materials suggested via active hyperlinks.

Teaching methods

This module is predominately delivered online over an approximate six-week time period. Materials are designed to facilitate both individual and group enterprise. A range of assessment methods are used: individual quiz and short reports and a group poster presentation.

Further information

There is increasing recognition that current (global) economic systems are often environmentally harmful and unsustainable. Bioeconomy, or biobased economy, is a new model for industry and the economy. It involves
the innovative use of renewable biological resources to sustainably produce food, energy and industrial goods.

In the short online course, you will consider the following key themes:

• Agriculture and food industry
• Bio-based applications
• Bio-refinery and biomass
• Business opportunities

These interconnected themes or modules form the basis on this online course for what is a
rapidly developing sector.

Evaluation scale

H-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

It will contain basic summaries/descriptions of some of the topics covered and will contain some sense of the student’s learning, but it may be sketchy, disorganised, short, or lacking a sense of progression. While there will be some evidence of understanding, the work will show very limited evidence of critical selection, analysis and reflection.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

It will show a clear and developing understanding of the concepts and issues addressed in the course, and provide both critical analysis and reflection on the topics of the course. The work will cover the main topics/themes but may draw on supplementary resources as well. There will be clear evidence of the student’s own learning process and of active engagement with the course content.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

It will not only demonstrate comprehensive and relevant coverage of the course
material but it will also present substantial analysis, evaluation and synthesis.
Work in this range will draw on a considerable amount of supplementary resources, take a particularly original approach to reflection, or point out exceptionally insightful or unexpected links between different elements of the course. The work submitted will reflect a persistent and high level of engagement and learning and will demonstrate a cumulative understanding of the course material

Assessment criteria, fail (0)

Marks in this range are indicative that the work is of an inadequate standard.

There will be insufficient evidence of comprehension of the course topics/themes, and inadequate evidence of learning and progression.

There will be no evidence of critical selection, analysis and reflection.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

Marks in this range are indicative that the work is of an adequate standard.

There will be some sense of the student’s learning, but it may be sketchy, disorganised, short, or lacking a sense of progression.

There will be very limited evidence of critical selection, analysis and reflection.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4)

Marks in this range are indicative that the work is of a good to a very good/satisfactory standard.

There will good/very good evidence of understanding of the course material and this will draw upon supplementary/external resources and good evaluative skillset

There will be clear evidence of the student’s own learning process with good engagement, critical selection, analysis and reflection.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Marks in this range are indicative that the work is of an excellent to an outstanding standard.

There will not only demonstrate comprehensive and relevant coverage of the course material but it will also present substantial analysis, evaluation and synthesis.

The will reflect a persistent and high level of engagement and learning and will demonstrate a cumulative understanding of the course material and excellent critical selection, analysis and reflection.

Qualifications

No prerequisites.