Open-Access Curriculum
Agroforestry for Interdisciplinary Learning
In response to the need to rapidly move courses online during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Center for Agroforestry developed open-source modules on agroforestry available at no cost. The material is introductory and can be integrated into courses in environmental sciences, sustainability, landscape design, plant sciences, horticulture, agronomy, ecology, and other disciplines (just like having guest lectures!). This is designed to fill at least 3 course period equivalents.
For a comprehensive guide to integrating these materials in your course, refer to this instructor guide, which includes objectives, discussion questions, and supplemental resources. Additionally, the Center for Agroforestry has created a unique set of materials specifically for high school educators and students. The High School Agroforestry Curriculum is available HERE.
What is Agroforestry? Practices and Pathways for Multifunctional Landscapes
Objectives of the curriculum:
Upon completion of this set of modules, students will be able to…
- Define agroforestry practices as they are situated in a broader ecological and social context;
- Recognize the value of perennial crops in agroecological systems;
- Consider planning, design, and management approaches for specialty crops in agroforestry.
Module 1: Understanding agroforestry as it is situated in a broader ecological and social context
Working Trees for Agriculture (USDA National Agroforestry Center)
Supplemental materials
Module 2: What is the value of integrating perennial crops in agroecological systems?
Select one or more of the following texts based on subject area(s) of interest.
- Agroforestry in Action technical guide: Integrating Agroforestry Practices for Wildlife Habitat (MU Center for Agroforestry)
- Working Trees for Water Quality (USDA National Agroforestry Center)
- Working Trees Info: How can agroforestry help landowners adapt to climate change? (USDA National Agroforestry Center)
Supplemental materials
Module 3: Planning, design, and management approaches for specialty crops in agroforestry
The Agroforestry Podcast episode 5: Tree-based Polycultures