CODE | LAS2062 | ||||||||
TITLE | Olive tree cultivation and olive oil: From ancient roots to modern uses | ||||||||
UM LEVEL | H - Higher Level | ||||||||
MQF LEVEL | 6 | ||||||||
ECTS CREDITS | 4 | ||||||||
DEPARTMENT | Centre for the Liberal Arts and Sciences | ||||||||
DESCRIPTION | This study-unit will explore the world of olive trees, their origin and cultivation. As enduring symbols of cultural heritage and economic sustenance, olive trees (Olea europaea) weave a rich tapestry connecting ancient origins to contemporary global significance. Delve into the origins of these ancient trees, tracing their roots in the Mediterranean, and uncover the fascinating journey of olive cultivation across diverse regions. This dynamic study-unit comprises engaging lectures, each offering a variety of topics ranging from the biology and morphology of olive trees to their economic and cultural importance. Practical events on pruning and olive pressing will also be performed to enhance the hands-on learning process. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Describe the origins and historical significance of olive trees, understanding their role in ancient civilizations and cultural heritage; - Outline comprehensive knowledge of olive tree biology, from reproductive mechanisms to adaptive features for survival in various environments; - Identify and differentiate between prominent olive cultivars, exploring their unique characteristics and contributions to olive oil production. 2. Skills By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Develop observational skills for identifying different olive tree cultivars, leaves, and growth patterns; - Hone critical thinking skills by analyzing the global spread of olive cultivation, considering historical, cultural, and economic factors; - Enhance practical skills through hands-on experiences in pruning techniques and olive pressing, applicable to real-world agricultural practices. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: - Yonar P. (2022) Olive Cultivation. IntechOpen. 154 pages. ISBN:180355441X - Fabbri A., Baldoni L., Caruso T. & Famiani F. (2024) The Olive, Botany and Production CABI. 704 pages. ISBN: 978-1-78924-733-6. |
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STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture and Fieldwork | ||||||||
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT |
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LECTURER/S | David Mifsud |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2024/5. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |