QUANTITATIVE METHODS FOR AGRI-FOOD INDUSTRIES AND SUPPLY CHAINS
cod. 1011104

Academic year 2024/25
3° year of course - First semester
Professor responsible for the course unit
Alessandro CALVIA
integrated course unit
8 credits
hub:
course unit
in ITALIAN

Learning objectives

The first part of the course aims at providing students with adequate mathematical foundations of multivariable calculus and optimization, and at introducing them to quantitative methods used in economics. Particular attention is devoted to discussing mathematical models arising in agricultural economics and food supply chain management.

At the end of the second part of the course, students will know the fundamental economic tools related to microeconomic theory (consumers, firms, and market structures) for analyzing agri-food supply chains. After introducing the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the course examines trade policy, with applications in the agri-food market.
Upon completing the second part of the course, students will have acquired the tools to analyze the dynamics and issues of the current agri-food system, which faces increasing competitive pressure in a context of market globalization. Students will be able to use economic and statistical analysis techniques, particularly referring to basic mathematical formulations and graphs corresponding to the main models of the theory."

Prerequisites

The course is split into two modules, whose prerequisites are detailed in the respective Syllabi.

Course unit content

The course is split into two modules, whose contents are detailed in the respective Syllabi.

Full programme

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Bibliography

The course is split into two modules, whose textbooks are detailed in the respective Syllabi.

Teaching methods

Please refer to the "Teaching Methods" section of the Syllabi for the two course modules.

Assessment methods and criteria

Written exam with a total duration of 60 minutes, whose contents are detailed in the Syllabi of the two course modules.

During the exam, students may use a scientific calculator, as long as it is not programmable or graphical.
Smartphones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, and any other electronic device that allow internet connection or communication with others are not permitted.

The written exam is graded on a scale of 0-32. The passing grade is 18 or higher.
The teachers may award "30 e lode" at their sole discretion and only if the total score of the written exam is 31 or higher.

In any case, the instructors reserve the right to request an oral exam if deemed necessary.

The written exams will take place during the exam sessions scheduled in the academic calendar. No mid-term exams will be held.

Students will learn the outcome of the exam through an email message sent by the University to their institutional email address via the Essetre system. This message will also provide the procedures and deadlines for any refusal of the grade received.

Other information

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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development

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