Study Guide

Objective

The student is able to gather information for calculation of key figures used in milk production. The student can utilize main sources to get information about the results calculated for a dairy farm. The student is able to process information if needed. The student can use the key figures to evaluate, plan and develop operations of a dairy cow unit taking into account animal productivity, health and welfare as well as effective use of resources and sustainbility. The student is able to take part in professional discussions of key figures and indicators used in milk production.

Content

Basics of fertility, data and information sources, principal key figures used in Finland and internationally and their interpretation, effect of key figures on productional and economical results, animal health and welfare, use of key figures in monitoring and planning of production

Materials

Hulsen, J. (2008). Fertility: A practical guide to fertility management (2nd ed.). Roodbont.

Hulsen, J., Lam, T. J. G. M., & Tirkkonen, M. (2011). Utareterveys. ProAgria Keskusten Liitto. (soveltuvin osin)

Teaching methods

Indepented webbased learning
Possibility to get guidance to assigments

Student workload

Totally 130 h.

Evaluation scale

1-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Student can name main data sources used in evaluation of fertility and in follw-up of production cycle. Student is able to make a reasonable summary of indicators of good fertility and production management of a dairy farm.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student can compare different key figures and data sources. The student can justify the usability of key figures and indicators in evaluation of fertility and planning of production. The student can analyse which objectives to choose. The student can evaluate their own learning process during the course and can describe how to develop their knowledge and skills in future.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student can evaluate and justify the usability of different key figures in evaluation of fertility and planning of production widely and comprehensibly. The student can conclude, which targets and objectives to choose in different situations and from various perspectives. The student is able to suggest new indicators to make the overall picture about fertility and production management more complete.

Assessment methods and criteria

Approved assignments.