Course Number and Title:
AGS 123 Turfgrass Maintenance Practices
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: SSC 100 or concurrent
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
2 lecture hours/week
2 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course is an introduction to identification, cultivation, and maintenance of turfgrasses. Students are introduced to practices used to maintain golf courses, school facilities, parks, and athletic fields.
Additional Materials
None
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
- Discuss the diversity and importance of the turfgrass industry.(CCC 1; PGC 2)
- Compare the maintenance needs for a variety of turfgrass species. (CCC 1, 2, 5, 6; PGC 2, 3, 4 )
- Discuss and perform the distinctive functions used on golf courses and sports fields. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Identify and operate tools and equipment needed for the turfgrass industry. (CCC 1, 2, 4. 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Create a stencil for use on a sports field or golf course. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Discuss the diversity and importance of the turfgrass industry.
- Explain the role of turfgrasses.
- Describe the history of the turfgrass industry.
- Describe career opportunities in the turfgrass industry.
- Compare the maintenance needs for a variety of turfgrass species.
- Explain methods for establishing cool and warm season grasses.
- Describe the care of newly established turfgrass.
- Discuss what factors determine the best cutting heights for turfgrasses.
- Practice the correct cutting heights for turfgrass species and cultivars.
- Discuss and perform the distinctive functions used on golf courses and sports fields.
- Collect and analyze soil samples according to USGA specifications.
- Conduct field inspections to determine potential issues and maintenance needs.
- Calculate moisture content of playing surfaces and develop an irrigation plan.
- Identify and operate tools and equipment needed for the turfgrass industry.
- Select and operate equipment needed for greens maintenance.
- Perform various functions related to the care and maintenance of golf courses and sports fields.
- Explain and practice methods of safe and proper handling of turf equipment.
- Create a stencil for use on a sports field or golf course.
- Discuss necessary steps for creating a stencil for sports fields and describe the methods to be used in its construction.
- Create a stencil for a baseball and/or softball field layout.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
Evaluation Measure | Percentage of final grade |
Summative Assessments |
- Exams (4-6) (equally weighted)
| 20% |
- Simulation Projects (2-4) (equally weighted)
| 20% |
- Labs (10-12) (equally weighted)
| 30% |
Formative Assessments |
The course will contain various formative assessments including but not limited to: - Assignments
- Activities
- Quizzes
| 30% |
TOTAL | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
1. Demonstrate professional behaviors that satisfy workplace expectations.
2. Demonstrate effective professional communication skills.
3. Competently perform common practices and skills within the various aspects of the agriculture industry.
4. Demonstrate adherence to ethical, safety and environmental practices related to the agriculture industry.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.