University of Pennsylvania

Feeding the World

14,556 already enrolled

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.7

(234 reviews)

Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 20 hours
Learn at your own pace
98%
Most learners liked this course
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.7

(234 reviews)

Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 20 hours
Learn at your own pace
98%
Most learners liked this course

Details to know

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Assessments

22 quizzes

Taught in English

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There are 8 modules in this course

This module introduces the course by discussing the pressing need to address global food security as well as the accompanying challenges and ethical issues. We also explore the role that livestock play in the food production system and review trends in animal production.

What's included

11 videos2 quizzes

This module begins to explore the fundamental principles of animal production operations and the issues surrounding animal production. We will look at the efficiency and environmental impact of the food system as well as animal welfare concerns. Finally, we will discuss the importance of water as an essential resource for the food production system.

What's included

6 videos2 quizzes

This module focuses on animal feeds and their important role in the animal production system. You will gain an understanding of the constituents in feed as well as how feed is classified. We will also examine and explain how nutrients flow through the environment. Finally, we will look at the problem of food waste and identify solutions.

What's included

9 videos3 quizzes

This module continues the discussion of animal production operations by looking at factors that affect farms’ animal yields and environmental efficiency. We will also explore food safety, how and why antibiotics are used in food production, and the importance of veterinary medicine as part of the livestock system. Finally, we will look at the challenges of food security and livestock farming in the developing world.

What's included

7 videos3 quizzes

Welcome to the first week of the course which explores a particular animal production sector. The focus for this module will be dairy. The life cycle of a dairy cow as well as the environmental impact of dairy production will be covered. We'll also explore housing systems, milking technologies, trends and animal welfare issues in the dairy production system. Finally we will address public health concerns in dairy production including hormone use, antibiotic use, and milk safety in the U.S.

What's included

9 videos3 quizzes

This module will examine the life cycle of market hogs and mother sows in the U.S. swine production system. Swine housing and the rationale behind those facilities will be covered in addition to welfare and the trends and challenges currently affecting the swine industry.

What's included

4 videos2 quizzes

This module examines the production system and life cycle of U.S. poultry. We'll address animal welfare issues and emerging challenges and finish the week with a discussion about public health concerns related to the poultry production system.

What's included

4 videos3 quizzes

The final module of the course focuses on beef production systems. We will examine the production system and life cycle of U.S. beef cattle. Then, we'll address animal health as well as public health issues. Finally, we'll finish the week with a discussion about the international beef industry.

What's included

11 videos4 quizzes1 discussion prompt

Instructors

Instructor ratings
4.7 (50 ratings)
David Galligan
University of Pennsylvania
1 Course14,556 learners
James Ferguson
University of Pennsylvania
1 Course14,556 learners

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Learner reviews

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4.7

234 reviews

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    15.48%

  • 3 stars

    3.76%

  • 2 stars

    0.41%

  • 1 star

    0.41%

DA
5

Reviewed on Apr 21, 2020

MR
5

Reviewed on May 30, 2022

G
5

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2020

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