This book transforms our current understanding of assessment practice in different educational settings and cultures.  Drawing upon the resources of language games and critical realism the authors argue for an innovative engagement with the philosophical, theoretical and practical foundations of assessment. What is the connection between learning, motivation and assessment? Is assessment for learning a motorway or a blind alley for improved learning outcomes? How can creativity be assessed through the eyes of the connoisseur? How can assessment cultures be understood as forms of life and language games? Do new forms of society transform our assessment practices? A critical appreciation of the work of Royce Sadler is offered for assessment specialists.

This collection reviews key research addressing key challenges faced by organic animal farming in improving yields, animal nutrition and health. Part 1 assesses current research on environmental impact, promoting animal health, enhancing naturalness and welfare. It also reviews how organic systems fit in with agroforestry, pastoralist and other smallholder farming systems. The second part of the book includes case studies from leading experts on current research in improving the farming of particular species. Chapters review challenges and opportunities in organic dairy and beef farming, sheep and goats, pigs and poultry. There are also chapters on organic aquaculture as well as organic and natural beekeeping. With its distinguished editors and international team of expert authors, this will be a standard reference for all those researching organic animal farming as well as the organic livestock farmers, organic certification and regulatory bodies.

The rapid growth of organic farming has been amongst the most remarkable changes in global agriculture in recent decades. Initially, more attention was paid to the crop side of organic systems, but that has now changed and there is greater recognition of the need to understand animal health and welfare better.This book will further the understanding of organic animal husbandry, demonstrating practical solutions and innovative methods, and drawing mainly on research and practical experience with organic farming in Europe.

In 'Memories of Youth', Glyn and Steve bring to life recollections of their adolescence in the Upper Usk Valley parish of Crai, with its patchwork of green fields, impounded headwaters and many acres darkly afforested. Although reflecting much of their experiences and impressions during the Second World War and immediate post war years - a time when the horse still reigned supreme and electricity rare in rural Breconshire - Glyn and Steve also draw back the curtains on earlier heritage dating back to Roman, Celtic and Norman times. Readers will be introduced, sometimes in English, sometimes in Welsh, to historical figures, local luminaries, and intriguing locations and possibilities, as well as notable events, friendly rivalries and cultural activities that brought local people together, shaping the values and cultural ethos of the authors and their neighbours in this distinctive rural community, even as world events and technological progress changed the area forever.