This class will engage participants in a lecture/discussion-based adventure dealing with current issues around animal agriculture in Alberta (chickens, turkeys, pigs, beef and dairy cows, sheep, horses). The viewpoint of the material will be from that of a food consumer. Farmers will join the class to add their perspectives on feeding people. Field trips to the U of A South Campus Dairy and Poultry units will take place within the class period. Special topics to be discussed will include: genetic progress, animal welfare, niche market products, high-tech equipment and housing, backyard chickens, the use of steroid hormones in beef, supply management, heritage breed conservation and much more. Students can participate in daily “name that tool” and “word of the day” activities. Participants are encouraged to arrive at the class with questions they would like to learn the answers to during the course. They are also expected to have fun!
Instructor: Dr. Frank Robinson
Frank Robinson was until recently a professor of Poultry Production and Physiology at the University of Alberta. For 35 years, he taught and conducted research in animal and poultry science. Through creative endeavours in engaging undergraduate students in experiential learning, Frank has helped students find their careers in animal and poultry science, agricultural community development and research. By active integration with industry people, thousands of students have made valuable contacts and gained experience in agricultural practices. He served the U of A in several administrative positions including Vice-Provost and Dean of Students (2008-2014). He was inducted into the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame, was awarded a 3M National Teaching Fellowship, and was recently awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for contributions in youth and public education about agriculture. He is a Fellow of the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture and the Poultry Science Association.
