Forest Sites and Soils (12 cr)

Objectives (course unit)

The student:
- is able to identify forest and mire types and soil types in field
- can visually interpret aerial images and also use a map for orienteering in the forest
-knows how the the conditions of forest sites affect the growth of trees and silvicultural decisions
- knows the native tree species grown in Finland and is familiar with their essential ecological requirements.

Content (course unit)

Interpretation of aerial images, forming forest compartments, identification of forest types and undrained and drained mire types, using indicator species, using digital maps, determining soil types in the field, factors affecting tree growth, the ecological requirement of different tree species, orienteering skills.

Exam schedules

For international students the exam will be 11th October

Assessment methods and criteria

Will be choosen together with the international students at the beginning of the course.

Assessment scale

0-5

Teaching methods

Indipendent studing, problem-based learning method,indipendent studing,lectures, group works, field studies and field trips.

Learning materials

Learning material will be choosen together with the international students at the beginning of the course

Student workload

International exchange students will get their own schedule.Indipendent studing and reports about 180h, field trips and field stufies ~60h, tutorials 12h, exam 4h,

Content scheduling

There will be three tutorial sessions
1) Forest plants
2) maps and aerial fotos
3) Fertility of forest soils

Completion alternatives

International exchange students will get their own schedule.

International connections

Also for international exchange students

Further information

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered pedagogy in which students learn about a subject through the experience of creating a proble.

Assessment criteria - satisfactory (1-2) (Not in use, Look at the Assessment criteria above)

Students are familiar with the main features of the forest and peatland types in Finland and are aware of the main factors affecting tree growth. They are able to make observations regarding tree stands based on satellite images and use satellite images and maps as an aid when working in the field. They are able to identify Finnish tree species based on literature references

Assessment criteria - good (3-4) (Not in use, Look at the Assessment criteria above)

In addition, the students are able to determine soil types when working in the field and know how to use vegetation as an aide in the identification of forest and peatland types. They are able to interpret aerial photographs and navigate the terrain with ease. They are aware of the factors affecting tree growth and are able to analyze relationships between them. They are able to identify main Finnish tree species.

Assessment criteria - excellent (5) (Not in use, Look at the Assessment criteria above)

Additionally, the students are able to draw on field observations and their theoretical knowledge in the definition of site characteristics. They are able to identify Finnish tree species.