Course Syllabus
Course: AGTM 1330
Division: Business and Applied Tech
Department: Business
Title: Agricultural Chemicals and Applications
Semester Approved: Spring 2024
Five-Year Review Semester: Fall 2028
End Semester: Fall 2029
Catalog Description: This course is designed to familiarize students with agricultural pests and measures for pest control. Special emphasis will be placed on using the proper equipment and techniques for applying pesticides. Equipment and methods used to apply pesticides in agriculture with emphasis on techniques to avoid misapplication and pesticide drift.
Semesters Offered: Fall
Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 3; Lecture: 2; Lab: 2
Justification: Pesticides are substances designed and utilized for the destruction, prevention, and/or mitigation of pests. People are biologically similar to some pests, and because of this, some pesticides can adversely affect humans. Off-target exposure and environmental damage can also occur. Education has proven to be the most effective deterrent to pesticide exposure and its correct usage. This class will prepare students with proper training to receive a Utah Pesticide Applicator license. Students will learn to identify common agricultural weeds and pests and determine the best management practices for control. Attention will also be paid to fertilizer management and use with regard to safety and environmental concerns. This course is similar to USU as PSC 2200, and to SUU as AGSC 3230.
Student Learning Outcomes:
As a result of taking this course, students will:
Identify application equipment, and components. Students will be assessed through class exercises, and periodic quizzes.
Identify different types of pests and control methods. Students will be assessed through class presentations and class exercises.
Understand pesticide differences and their use. Students will be assessed through class exercises and assignments.
Understand IPM (integrated pest management) strategies. Students will develop an Integrated Pest Management plan for the college farm which will utilize assessment through class exercises, and presentations.
Understand pesticide laws, safety, and regulations. Students will be assessed via the Utah State Department of Agriculture pesticide applicator's test certification.
Understand and perform proper equipment calibration. Students will be assessed through class exercises and periodic quizzes.
Identify precision technologies in use. Students will research, give a written report, and present findings to the class.
Content:
Course objectives will be accomplished by providing students with the following learning experiences: pest management control methods and effectiveness; Integrated Pest Management (IPM); Federal pesticide laws and regulations; Pesticide labeling; Pesticide formulations; Pesticide hazards, first aid, and personal protective equipment (PPE); Pesticides and the environment; Application of pesticides and fertilizers.
Key Performance Indicators:
Student learning will be based upon several performance indicators which will show competency in this area, primarily through assignments and activities as these will be fundamental in the designing and operation processes.
Assignments and reports 30 to 40%
Class exercises 20 to 30%
Class presentations 0 to 10%
Periodic quizzes 10 to 20%
Final exam- certification 10 to 20%
Representative Text and/or Supplies:
National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual, Second Edition 2014: National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Research Foundation
Agriculture Plant Pest Management, Study Guide for Pesticide Application and Safety Category 1a: Utah Department of Agriculture and Food
Pedagogy Statement:
This course will encourage and welcome respectful dialogue from a diverse range of ideas, topics, and perspectives. In addition, equitable access will be available to all involved in this course including students and faculty. Students will be encouraged to share cultural experiences and identities, allowing others to learn from their perspectives. This will allow students from all backgrounds to foster respect, understanding, and cooperation, further increasing diversity.
Instructional Mediums:
Lecture/Lab
Maximum Class Size: 25
Optimum Class Size: 20
