The course introduces students to a systemic perspective and theories of production systems using case studies, through which students will be taught how to describe and explain the interactions between farming practices and the social-ecological conditions that influence the sustainability of agricultural production and rural livelihoods.

The interactions between agricultural production components such as crops, animals, soil, technological equipment, and infrastructural settings will be analysed. The interactions within social and economic settings, such as cultural norms and other formal and informal institutions that influence production conditions in different agroecosystems, will also be addressed.

The course will deal with fundamental agronomic production issues, with the focus on small-scale farming systems based on local renewable resources and ecosystem services.
Particular attention will be paid to crop production, soil processes such as soil fertility building, nutrient cycles and flows and sustainable pest management strategies.
Small-scale animal husbandry including animals for multifunctional purposes and livestock diseases, will also be presented.

The course includes lectures, group-work, literature searches, excursions and discussions to analyse different farm practices and its socio-ecological factors affecting the agricultural production systems.