Learning outcomes of the curricular unit (knowledge, skills and competences to be developed by the students)
The course aims to develop learning methodologies that prepare students to integrate into applied professional training programs in a work context, focusing on open-field horticulture, particularly in the horto-industrial component and within the scope of 4th range horticulture.
Syllabus
Horticulture: definition and scope. Economic, social, and food importance. Current Overview: Worldwide and national perspective. Market aspects. Geography of horticultural production. Identification of horticultural species and classification. General aspects of some horticultural species with relevant economic importance: Taxonomy. Economic interest. Physiological aspects. Cultural systems. Establishment and management. Post-harvest and marketing. The horticultural plant: its organs and main functions. Growth and development phenomena. Propagation methods. Horticultural exploitation: factors to consider in its establishment. Rotations, successions, intercropping, and associations. Production technologies: implementation methods, seeding vs. planting, soil preparation, fertilization, irrigation, and disinfection. Harvest and general aspects of horticultural product conservation.
Demonstration of the syllabus coherence with the curricular unit's learning objectives
The syllabus contents encompass a set of technical information that serves as the foundation for the development of skills to understand horticultural production technologies. This, in turn, enables the acquisition of competencies in the workplace, capable of training highly skilled technicians.
Teaching methodologies (including evaluation)
Evaluation System: Attendance to classes is optional. Conditions for exemption from the final exam: Completion of a written test (A) Completion of two practical assignments (B) Attainment of a minimum score of 10 (ten) points in the written test and 10 (ten) points in the completed assignments, components A and B. Final Grade = 0.7A + 0.3B
Final exam (C): Involves the completion of a written test Final Grade = 0.3B + 0.7C Or Final Grade = 1*C (for students who do not complete the project work and are enrolled in the course)
Demonstration of the coherence between the teaching methodologies and the learning outcomes
The teaching method aims to convey knowledge and ways of analyzing, interpreting, and planning agricultural enterprises. In the context of academic training, practical exercises hold significant value, especially emphasized in an agricultural field where practice is fundamental, surpassing theoretical instruction. In this sense, integrated training in practical activities is proposed, aiming to early on make the learner aware of the specificities of production technology.
Bibliography (Mandatory resources)
Almeida, D. (2006). Manual de culturas hortícolas. Vol. I. Editorial Presença. Lisboa. 360 pp. ISBN: 9789722335515. Almeida, D. (2006). Manual de culturas hortícolas. Vol. I. Editorial Presença. Lisboa. 400 pp. ISBN: 9789722335683. Gardé, A. & Gardé N. (1988). Culturas hortícolas. 6º Edição. Ed. Livraria Clássica Editora. Lisboa. Maroto Borrego, J. V. (2002). Horticultura herbacea especial (5ª ed. rev. y ampliada). Madrid : Mundi-Prensa.
