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Abstract. A critical reflection regarding Agricultural Systems Management curriculum uncovered effective coverage of problem solving, relevant and upcoming technologies, business and finance, and agricultural sciences; courses on these topics complemented by general education requirements support the agriculture and systems descriptors of the agricultural systems management major. However, management, as a specific topic, generally lacked structured and sufficient coverage in our undergraduate program. Business principles such as accounting, marketing, finance, selling, and law are elements of management, but management itself is more about controlling toward results aligned with organizational goals (often profit and sustainability). Effective management involves the strategic, tactical, and operational guidance and control of people, resources, facilities, etc. to bring about results. More focus on methods of effective management seemed warranted. This offers course structure and assignments toward this end that include critical thinking and reflective writing. It points to complementary resources for other instructors with similar instruction goals.

The Purdue University ASM Senior seminar was revamped to focus on principles, tasks, and tools of effective management. Assignments are tightly coupled to topics addressed in the book “Managing, Performing, Living – Effective Management for a new Era” (2nd ed) by Fredmund Malik. Management principles covered include focus on results, contributions to the whole, concentration on a few things, utilizing strengths, and trust and associated assignments help students identify with these principles. Putting management tasks such as providing objectives, organizing, making decisions, supervising, and developing and promoting people in the context of the discipline and anticipated career paths helps to motivate students on the topics. Reflections on internships and other experiences enhances the understanding and insights regarding tools of managers such as meetings, budgets and budgeting, reports, and job design.