Students demonstrate computer skills by solving problems using appropriate software, and finding information on the Internet. Students are expected to assist with the planning and conduction of the Montana FFA Career Development Events. This requires the interaction with about 250 high school students and their teachers. Problem-Solving Skills Upper division courses are based on real life problems taken from Montana agriculture. Research projects and capstone experiences require a demonstration of the ability to think critically and solve problems.
Students work independently and in teams to solve problems.
Students are presented with agricultural building design problems which require developing specific designs and solutions. Such factors as building loads, structural members, psychometrics, heat and moisture, waste management and treatment and energy considerations must be taken into account. Students are given agricultural operations and expected to determine the size of tractor to utilize, the economics of machine operation and properly size the implements to the tractor. Students are given examples of incorrect machine operation and expected to offer a repair or strategy to solve the problem. Students also must consider the type, cost and efficiency of utilizing an irrigation system on this operation.