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SymposiaTeaching organic horticulture - The Echinacea case study S9Kahl, Holger Christchurch Polytechnic School of Horticulture, P.O. Box 22 095 , Christchurch, New Zealand |
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This paper will explore aspects of the 'organic' curriculum in horticulture and its delivery. The needs of the students and of the organic industry in New Zealand are identified, as well as essential contents of the curriculum which are not generally covered in the 'conventional' curriculum. One of the principles of organic growing is often described as 'holistic thinking and acting'. It is argued that the teaching of 'organics' must be holistic as well. A case study in producing a medicinal tincture from certified, organically grown Echinacea Purpurea plants is used to illustrate such an approach which involves the students in a whole project. | |||