Animal welfare and ethology

After completing the course, the student will have achieved the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge:

• has basic knowledge in animal welfare, both in general and specifically related to livestock
• has knowledge of the natural behavior needs and social relations of livestock animals
• has thorough knowledge of stocking conditions, space requirements and environment of livestock animals
• has knowledge of key research and development work in the field
• has knowledge of regulations and recommendations for the keeping of livestock and animal welfare

Skills:

• can conduct behavioural studies to study animals' time budgets and preferences
• can analyse and make simple calculations on issues related to the animal welfare of livestock

General competence:

• has insight and ability to reflection and assessment in animal welfare questions
• has insight in factors affecting animal behaviour, and how housing can affect production, health and welfare
• has knowledge of and developed the ability to reflect upon and assess issues where welfare of livestock is a key component
• is able to propose preemptive measures to prevent animal welfare issues for livestock
• can communicate professional literature that is of relevance to the livestock's environment and contribute to professional discussions in the field
• has the knowledge and skills required to communicate about issues and potential solutions in the field in a clear and comprehensible way