The subject Agricultural Technology focuses on technology used in agriculture. The subject covers the knowledge  of how processes, tools, equipment, structures and skills are utilized by farmers, to cultivate agricultural land and produce food and products, through various production processes, thus sustaining and maintaining quality of life and increasing economic, aesthetic and sound cultural values.

Specific Aims

The subject Agricultural Technology exposes learners to knowledge and skills relevant within the agricultural and farming environment.

in Agricultural Technology, learners will:

• Understand the social contribution of Agricultural Technology.

• identify and solve technological problems in an Agricultural environment using critical, innovative and creative thinking, in order to develop the creative potential of learners.

• Communicate effectively using verbal and written communication in Agricultural Technology.

• Organize and manage activities responsibly and effectively collect, analyse, organize, critically evaluate and present information.

• Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility and accountability towards the environment and the rights and health of others.

• Show an understanding of the relevant indigenous knowledge, values and attitudes which relate to Agricultural Technology.

Learners will be prepared for various career pathways and additional education and training opportunities by:

• Applying knowledge and skills of Agricultural Technology in various farming related contexts.

• Developing entrepreneurial skills.

• Exploring education and career opportunities, thus becoming lifelong learners, learning to be sensitive to the rights of others including those living with and affected by hiV and AiDS as well as Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN).

• Learning to manage and be sensitive to their own rights and responsibilities in terms of their role in the community.

scope

Agricultural Technology offers the learners the opportunity to apply the technological process to design and make practical projects, operate, repair and maintain equipment, design and construct structures in the agricultural environment.

The following generic concepts are embedded in Agricultural Technology:

• identifying and solving problems using the technological process and relevant scientific principles;

• safety rules and regulations applicable within the agricultural environment, according to the Occupational, Health and Safety (OHS) Act, 1993 (Act 85 of 1993), first aid and medical emergencies including HIV and AiDS awareness;

• basic operational knowledge and correct use of agricultural tools, equipment and machinery used in production and processing of food and fibre;
• effective communication techniques such as verbal, written and visual communication;

• effective use of computer technology, measuring and surveying equipment related to agriculture;

• construction, erecting and maintenance of agricultural buildings and structures;

• maintenance and repair of farm implements and machinery;

• energy principles and their application in agriculture;

• planning, construction and maintenance of animal handling facilities necessary for effective animal production;

• safe and effective use of agricultural equipment used in crop production, horticulture, orchards, vineyards, fodder crops and forestry;

• planning, designing and maintenance of macro and micro irrigation and hydroponics systems; and

• calibrations and calculations in the agricultural environment.

The following processes must be embedded in Agricultural Technology:

• Learn to solve problems in methodical, scientific and in creative ways in the agricultural environment;

• Learn by dealing directly with inclusivity, human rights, social and environmental issues in their theoretical and practical tasks;

• Use and engage with subject related knowledge in a purposeful way;

• Use a variety of life skills when working on projects in an authentic context (for example decision making,critical thinking, co-operation and needs identification); and
• develop more positive attitudes and perceptions towards career pathways.

Scope of Knowledge to be obtained

• Technology, society and the environment

• Technological process

• Specific knowledge and understanding

• Application of knowledge

Subject requirements

schools offering agricultural technology

Schools must have adequate human resources and access to appropriately equipped workshops where the practical demonstrations, lessons and practical work (PAT) can be done.

time allocation for agricultural technology

Four hours per week is allocated to Agricultural Technology. A two-hour continuous period must be allocated per week for practicals. Practical classes in the afternoons can be used to finish the PAT and various practical activities as decided by the school.

Overview of topics