Delaware Valley University professor Doug Linde, Ph.D., likes to incorporate as many real-world learning opportunities as possible into his curriculum. His students like that, too.
Each year, as part of a course he teaches on irrigation, his students simulate an irrigation system installation by putting together all the piping above ground around the university's research putting green. The exercise allows students to put everything together - even if it is above ground - so they have some degree of experience when they have to tackle such a project in the field for the first time.The putting green and research plots are just steps away from the classroom located in what Linde called the "farm machinery building" and thus make for a convenient diversion for outdoor learning opportunities.
"We do all sorts of things out there," Linde said.
"There is a big demand for experiential learning. I try to do as much of that as I can."
This year, those students got to take part in a real install project after Linde decided it was time to replace the practice green's aging irrigation system. A host of industry vendors and partners got together in mid-October and donated pipe, irrigation heads, fittings and expertise to make the project happen.
Mike Hartley of Turf Equipment and Supply Co., a Jessup, Maryland-based Toro dealer with outlets throughout the mid-Atlantic, quarterbacked the project and the company donated the pipe and sprinkler heads. Harco furnished fittings and contractor George Ley, principal of George E. Ley Co., supplied the know-how.
Hartley said helping Delaware Valley students complete such a project aligns perfectly with his Tesco's goals and philosophy.
"Education is part of Turf Equipment and Supply Company's mission," he said.
About 20 students worked with Ley and Hartley on the project in a series of work stations so all students got to "touch" the project. Linde estimates donations of product and labor totaled about $6,000 to make upgrades to the 5,000 square foot green.
"We had 20 students and four industry reps spaced out in work stations on this project," Linde said.
"It was a great example of how the industry helps education."