What teaching linkages does Rural Science have within the University of New England and with external partners?: Are we making the most of the opportunities?

Abstract

Linkages relating to the teaching of Rural Science and of Agriculture at the University of New England (UNE) are diverse; together with the wide range of degrees and units, these linkages are rapidly evolving in response to both internal and external pressures. Some of these linkages within and outside UNE-include cross-School and cross-Faculty co-operation, as well as many industry linkages. UNE's involvement in seven Cooperative Research Centres has ensured for it great relevance to the agricultural industries of the broader region. Many agencies, including CSIRO and the NSW Department of Primary Industries, provide the university with substantial assistance in teaching, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate level. The University of New England also encourages close links between its students and the fanning community, including with the university's rural properties. UNE's linkages with other universities, both within Australia and internationally, are usually dependent on specific funded projects. Several initiatives from UNE have seen uptake by other universities, such as the use of multimedia and decision-support tools in teaching. Postgraduate training benefits from linkages with many Australian and overseas universities, as well as from industry connections. There are many opportunities for enhancement of our teaching through linkages, but most depend on securing funding. Successful partnerships will be best achieved through the development and implementation of carefully designed strategies that build upon the substantial goodwill that exists between staff and students across the university and from various industry sectors.