TLÜ ÕIS

Basics of Soil Sciences

Course code

MLG6041.LT

old course code

MLG6041

Course title in Estonian

Mullateaduse alused

Course title in English

Basics of Soil Sciences

ECTS credits

4.0

Assessment form

Examination

lecturer of 2024/2025 Autumn semester

Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.

lecturer of 2024/2025 Spring semester

Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.

Course aims

To offer an introduction to soil science by explaining the nature, composition, functions and characteristics of soils and the processes that shape it. Introducing the main methods used in soil science, including soil mapping and remote sensing. Giving and overview of soil regimes and the fertility of different types of soils (agricultural, anthropogenic and natural soils). Introducing the principles of soil classification. Helping in understanding the complex nature of soil ecosystems and ecological processes in soil, and discussing modern soil conservation problems.

Brief description of the course

The course will give an overview of the principles of soil science - the nature, composition, functions, properties and morphological characteristics of soils. Soil formation and development processes are discussed. An introduction is given into the methodologies used in soil science, including remote sensing and soil mapping. Soil regimes are discussed and the fertility of soils is discussed in the context of various types of soils (agricultural, anthropogenic and natural soils). An overview of soil classification is given. Also the soil ecology and modern soil conservation problems are discussed.

Learning outcomes in the course

Upon completing the course the student:
- is able to describe the main principles of soil science and understand the main terminology;
- can explain the the principles of soil processes and understands the relations of soils and the surrounding environment;
- is able to describe and analyse the soils of a study area, the main soil types and their characteristics;
- is familiar with literature of soil science and has the basic knowledge solve methodological problems.

Teacher

Piret Vacht ,PhD

Study programmes containing that course