Course Topics
The objective of the course is to provide students with an adequate knowledge of the general scientific content related to the disciplines covered, as well as the acquisition of specific professional skills. Students are expected to acquire knowledge and competences in the macro- and microscopic identification of the main economically important wood species, their physical and technical characteristics, as well as elements of forest management and insights into the forest–wood supply chain.

Teaching format
Frontal lectures

Educational objectives
The course is part of the first year of the Bachelor in Wood Engineering and it is focused on the fields of wood technology. The aim of the course is to ensure an adequate scientific and professional knowledge of the topics that will be object of study. The students will acquire proper knowledge and competences on the identification of the main wood types, both from a macro- and microscopic point of view, on their physical and technical properties as well as on some basics of forest management. Knowledge and understanding Knowledge on the identification of woody species and on their technological characteristics. Knowledge and understanding of the functioning of the main wood production systems. Applying knowledge and understanding Integration and connection of the acquired knowledge in order to determine the characteristics related to wood quality and its use. Ability of linking such characteristics to the several wood production systems. Making judgements Critical evaluation of the factors affecting wood technological properties. Communication skills Ability of communicating the acquired knowledge with clear and proper scientific and technical language. Learning skills Ability of autonomously updating and expanding the scientific and technical knowledge acquired during the course.

Assessment
Evaluation is based on a combination of oral/written exams, assignments, and/or student presentations.

Evaluation criteria
The final evaluation will be related to the knowledge of the topics treated during the course, to the ability of summarizing and establishing connections between topics as well as to the language clarity and command.