University of Pennsylvania

Feeding the World

Taught in English

Some content may not be translated

13,697 already enrolled

Course

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals

David Galligan
James Ferguson

Instructors: David Galligan

4.7

(223 reviews)

Beginner level
No prior experience required
20 hours to complete
3 weeks at 6 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Assessments

22 quizzes

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

Placeholder
Placeholder

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV

Share it on social media and in your performance review

Placeholder

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 (48 ratings)
David Galligan
University of Pennsylvania
1 Course13,697 learners
James Ferguson
University of Pennsylvania
1 Course13,697 learners

Offered by

Recommended if you're interested in Basic Science

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Learner reviews

Showing 3 of 223

4.7

223 reviews

  • 5 stars

    79.91%

  • 4 stars

    15.62%

  • 3 stars

    3.57%

  • 2 stars

    0.44%

  • 1 star

    0.44%

G
5

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2020

DA
5

Reviewed on Apr 21, 2020

MR
5

Reviewed on May 30, 2022

New to Basic Science? Start here.

Placeholder

Open new doors with Coursera Plus

Unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription

Advance your career with an online degree

Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online

Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business

Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy

Frequently asked questions