Study Guide

Objectives

The aim of the course is to give the student an understanding of the history, current state and future prospects of forest use, as well as the different meanings of forests in different eras. The aim of the study course is also to introduce you to forestry policy and various forestry organizations.

After completing the course, the student:
• understands the economic, social and ecological significance of forest sector in regional and national economy
• knows the history of the uses of forests and of forest sector and the factors affecting the functional environment and future of forest sector in Finland
•knows the historical background of institutions, steering measures and legislation and their effects on the ways of using forests
• knows the potential of Finnish forests for different uses
• knows on a general level about the social significance of forests in different geographical regions.

Content

Getting to know history of forests and forestry institutions, cultural, regional and national economic significance of forest sector, production of forest resource information by using statistics, literature and lectures. Sketching the future visions of forest sector and the potentials of different uses.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

The student knows on a general level the importance of forestry in the Finnish economy, society and regional development. He/she knows the most important Finnish forestry institutions and is familiar with their development. The student is able to express his views on the future of the forest industry. However, the student's perceptions of the above issues are limited or based on one-sided knowledge.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4)

The student is able to present well-grounded interpretations of the social and cultural significance of forests in Finland and the regional economy, as well as the relationship between forest policy and forest use and its development. He/she knows the institutions that govern forestry, their roles and the relationships between them. The student is able to present reasoned estimates of the future of the forest industry.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student understands the social and cultural significance of forests and the complexity of shaping forest policy. He/she is able to visualize the links between forest policy and major development processes - combines conceptual, experiential, general and local knowledge. The student demonstrates openness to different interpretations and is able to imagine the future of the forest sector creatively.