Study Guide

Objective

The student know the breeding goals of different farm animals. The student can explain the present practices used in the breeding of cattle and pigs mainly. The student can make a summary about the principles of mating planning at herd level and can evaluate the effects of a mating plan. The student can explain the significance of breeding goals and practices used on production and sustainable development in animal production.

Content

Heredity, breeding goals of different animals, genetic evaluation, reading of Finnish and international breeding values, herd level mating plans, evaluation of the effects of a mating plan, progress in genetic gain, legislation, ethical considerations.

Materials

Aro, J., Niemi, A., Toivonen, M., & Vahlsten, T. (2020). Testaa ja valitse: Lypsykarjanjalostuksella tuloksiin (1. painos.). Opetushallitus.
Jokela, M., Ahola-Launonen, J., Oja-Leikas, M., & Rova, M. (2017). Kiehtovat geenit: Mihin geenitietoa käytetään? (1. painos.). Duodecim.

Teaching methods

Independend webbased learning.
Possibility to get guidance to assignments.

Student workload

Totally 130 h.

Evaluation scale

1-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student can name the most essential breeding goals and ways of gathering data for breeding. The student has basic ability to read and interpret the breeding values and breeding plans.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student knows the breeding goals and their significance. The student can interpret breeding values and evaluate the effects of a breeding plan at herd level.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student has in-depth knowledge for interpreting breeding values and breeding plans. The student can justify the selection criteria of animals and can explain the principles of broader breeding programs.

Assessment methods and criteria

Approved assignments.

Qualifications

Basic knowledge of Finnish animal production and documentation of production. Basic of farm animal housing and welfare or similar knowledge.