Course objectives:
The course will cover current topics in weed science including: Weed population biology, weed community ecology, integrated weed management, herbicide resistance, traditional and current scientific methods used in weed science. This course will not cover all topics related to weed science extensively, but rather examine specific topics in weed science intensively
The course format is based on discussing of scientific and review papers. For each topic, a student will introduce the topic via a short presentation of the major points covered by the papers (30-40 min) and then leading the discussion for the remainder of the class.
The goals of the course are to enhance the student’s understanding of theoretical, scientific, and practical aspects of weed management, practice oral and written presentation skills, and hone critical thinking and discussion skills.

Suggested Topics

1) History and evolution Sep 27
2) The seedbank and emergence Oct 4
3) Plant interference I Oct 12
4) Plant interference II Oct 18
5) Spatial dynamics of weeds Oct 25
6) Community ecology and analysis Nov 1
7) Herbicide resistance Nov 8
8) IWM and novel approaches to weed management Nov 22
9) Molecular tools in weed science Nov 29
10) Modeling in weed science Dec 6

Grading Scheme:
Event % of final grade
Weekly assignments 25
In-class presentations 25
Contribution to discussion 30
Term assignment 20
= 100

Weekly Assignment
Weekly assignments are to include a 1 page summary of the weekly readings, an answer to the discussion question that will be provided (1 page maximum), one discussion question (may have multiple parts) of your own and answers in point form to that question. Each component of the assignment has an equal value. Hard copies and e-copies of the assignment are due at the beginning of each class.

In-class presentation
In addition to the assigned readings, presenting students are to choose two additional papers that complement the topic. The additional papers must be provided to the instructor and other students at least 1 week before the presentation. Presenting students do not have to hand in a written assignment, but should have discussion points in mind when they lead the discussion following their presentation.

Contribution to discussion
Students will be graded on the quantity and quality of input into the discussion. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, innovative ideas, and additional information on the topic. Students will be provided with a grade for each discussion section no later than the beginning of the discussion session of the following class.

Term Assignment
To be discussed as a class.

Required Texts:
No other required texts. Required readings will be distributed weekly by the presenter(s)/discussion leader(s).

Voluntary withdrawal
Students will receive sufficient feedback (through weekly assignments and discussions) before the last date for voluntary withdrawal.

Note
Students are expected to familiarize themselves with general academic regulations and policy of the University of Manitoba (see University Calendar) and in particular those sections dealing with plagiarism and cheating, and examination-impersonation. These are serious offences which can lead to academic suspension or expulsion.