FOR30070 Forest Harvesting

Academic Year 2022/2023

This seven-week module covers the harvesting machinery and systems used in world forestry, with a special focus in Ireland. A prior knowledge of management, engineering and soils is required, as harvesting interacts closely with each of these. In addition to the coverage of the machinery and systems, a range of topics is discussed that make it possible to evaluate harvesting operations as an integral part of the overall management of forest resources. These topics include systems analysis, terrain analysis, time and motion study, machine costings, harvesting and the environment, ergonomics, and health and safety issues. The basic aspects of timber transportation is also covered in this module.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

Describe the range of harvesting machinery and systems in use in Ireland and abroad. Recognise factors influencing the effectiveness and efficiency of these machines and systems. Evaluate machinery and systems based on the full range of these factors. Understand the relationships between forestry machines and the environment.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

28

Autonomous Student Learning

75

Total

103

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
This module is taught using a blend of traditional lecture approaches (slide presentations as well as "chalk & talk") as well as group-based peer-to-peer discussion sessions where a range of literature (from machine specification brochures, to environmental impact reports, to research reports and technology update bulletins) is critically examined. This is designed to familiarise students with traditional information sources but also to keep them abreast of topical and newly developing material.
The continuous assessment assignment provides an opportunity for students to combine topics such as machine design and environmental sensitivity with concepts concerning ergonomics, health and safety, and systems analysis. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Examination: Final exam Week 8 No Graded No

75

Assignment: Machine report Week 4 n/a Graded No

25


Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Summer Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, on an activity or draft prior to summative assessment
• Peer review activities
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback on learning activities is integrated into the group problem-solving and critical evaluation of literature exercises. The small class size allows for feedback on development to both individuals as well as groups. This occurs throughout the 7 weeks. Following the first 3 to 3 weeks, moderated peer-to-peer and self evaluation in used within group dynamics and discussions.