Repository: UIHistories Project: Course Catalog - 1876-1877 [PAGE 26]

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Illinois Industrial University.

INSTRUCTION.

The instruction unites, as far as possible, theory and practice— theory explaining practice and practice illustrating theory. The technical studies are taught in connection with, or following instruction in, the sciences with which they are especially connected. The full course is designed to fit the student to be an intelligent man and citizen as well as a thoroughly trained specialist. The technical studies are mainly taught by lectures, with careful readings of standard agricultural books and periodicals, and frequent discussions, oral and written, by the students, of the principles taught. These are also illustrated by demonstrations and observations in the fields and stables, not only of the University, but of leading farmers and stockgrowers in the vicinity. After a year's study of Botany and Vegetable Physiology, and of Chemistry, the student begins the stud), at the opening of the second year, of Soils—their origin, classification, chemical and mechanical elements and properties; also of the Atmosphere as related to plant nutrition; in the second term, this study is continued, especially with regard to the theoiy and effects of Tillage, the composition, preservation and application of Fertilizers, and their chemical and mechanical effects; the composition and qualities of Foods, etc. During this year one term's study is given to General Horticulture, especially the culture of orchard and small fruits; and one term to Practical Entomology. In the first term of the third year, instruction is given in Agricultural Engineering and Architecture, including the selection and arrangement of the Farm; its improvement by mechanical means, as Drainage and Irrigation; its divisions, fences, hedges, etc.; its water supply; the construction of Roads; arrangement, planning, and construction of Farm Buildings; the construction, selection, care, and use of Farm Implements and Machinery. In the second term, Animal Husbandry will be studied, including the principles of breeding and management of our domestic animals; with descriptions of all important breeds and varieties, giving their history and adaptations. Especial attention is given to Dairy Farming. In the third term instruction is given in Landscape Gardening and Forestry. In the second term of the fourth year, Rural Economy is studied, including the relations of agriculture to other industries and to national prosperity; the influences which should determine the class of farming to be adopted; comparisons of special and general systems; the uniting of manufacturing with farming; and also the culture of the various farm crops, cereals, grasses, etc. In the third term of this year a course of lectures is given on the History and Present Condition of Agriculture in this and other countries; its literature and associations, and on legislation as affecting it. This is followed by a course of lectures on Rural Law, designed to familiarize the student with the general principles of business law—his liabilities, rights, and duties. During this term, special investigations are made by each student in the agricultural laboratory. A Thesis is required, embodying the results of these investigations.