PLSCS 2940 - Introduction to Agricultural Machinery

Fall. 2 credits. Student option grading.

Permission of instructor required. To enroll, contact Toni DiTommaso (ad97).

A. DiTommaso, C. Pelzer.

Overview of agricultural machinery used in the production of field crops. Information is presented in a lecture and field laboratory format stressing “hands-on” equipment demonstrations and use, particularly of tractors. Tractor safety is emphasized during the initial three weeks of tractor instruction where the students practice learning to competently drive a tractor. Successful completion provides a broad understanding of agricultural machinery operation and design rationale.

Outcome 1: Explain the design rationale and general operation of standard agricultural machinery.

Outcome 2: Decide which types of equipment should be used for various farm tasks and applications.

Outcome 3: Articulate the current and developing trends in agricultural machinery technology.