GRAINS PRODUCTION NC II – TESDA COURSE MODULE

TRAINING REGULATIONS FOR GRAINS PRODUCTION NC II

The GRAINS PRODUCTION NC II Qualification consists of competencies that a Rice/Corn farmer and Rice/Corn grower must achieve to conduct variety and seed selection, perform land preparation, carry-out crop establishment, manage crop and  conduct harvest and post-harvest operations. It also includes performing manual land preparation.

A student who has achieved this Course in GRAINS PRODUCTION NC II is competent to be:

• Rice/Corn Farmer
• Rice/Corn Grower

COMPETENCY STANDARDS

These guidelines are set to provide the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) providers with information and other important requirements to consider when designing training programs for GRAINS PRODUCTION NC II.

GRAINS PRODUCTION NC II – TRAINING AND REGULATION MODULE

Course Title: GRAINS PRODUCTION
Level: NC II
Nominal Training Duration : 423 Hours

This course is designed to enhance the knowledge, desirable attitudes and skills of a rice or corn farmer or rice or corn grower to conduct variety and seed selection, perform land preparation, carry-out crop establishment, manage crop and conduct harvest and post-harvest operations. It covers skills rice and corn farming and growing focusing on manual operations; while for mechanized operations, the farmer has to have competencies in sourcing out services from farm machinery service providers.

TRAINEE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Trainees or students wishing to gain entry into this course should possess the following requirements:

• Able to read and write
• Able to communicate, both orally and in writing
• Basic mathematical skills
• Physically able

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED IN GRAINS PRODUCTION NC II

This units of competency comprising this qualification include Basic, Common, Elective and Core Competencies.

To obtain this course, all units prescribed for this qualification must be achieved.

These units of competency comprising this qualification include the following:

UNIT CODE	CORE COMPETENCIES (331 Hours)
AFF611305	Conduct variety and seed selection
AFF611306	Perform land preparation
AFF611307	Carry-out crop establishment
AFF611308	Manage crop
AFF611309	Conduct of harvest and post-harvest operations
UNIT CODE	COMMON COMPETENCIES (72 Hours)
AGR321201	Apply safety measures in farm operations
AGR321202	Use farm tools and equipment
AGR321203	Perform estimation and basic calculation
UNIT CODE	BASIC COMPETENCIES (20 Hours)
500311105	Participate in workplace communication
500311106	Work in a team environment
500311107	Practice career professionalism
500311108	Practice occupational health and safety procedures

CORE COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : CONDUCT VARIETY AND SEED SELECTION
UNIT CODE : AFF611305
UNIT DESCRIPTOR : This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to
conduct site characterization, select suitable seed variety and
select quality seed.

1. Conduct site characterization
   • Soil characterization is performed according to soil type classification
   • Ecosystem is identified according to established classification
   • Climatic pattern is identified based on Climatic Type from PAG-ASA
   • Topography and elevation of the site are determined based on ocular observation
   • Information on the occurrence of prevalent pests and diseases are determined.
   • Record keeping is done based on workplace procedures
   • Available reference materials are sourced out based on work requirements.
2. Select suitable seed variety
   • Varietal characterization is performed for suitability of variety in the site.
   • List of recommended varieties is sourced out for reference in selection process.
   • Suited variety is chosen based on site characterization
3. Select quality seed
   • Classes of seeds are enumerated based on NSIC
   • Characteristics of quality seeds are determined based on NSIC
   • Germination test is performed according to established procedures
   • Quality seeds are chosen based on NSIC
   • Return and exchange of non-germinating seeds to the source is done following industry procedures

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PERFORM LAND PREPARATION
UNIT CODE : AFF611306

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform pre- tillage operations, conduct tillage operation and perform post-tillage operation.

1. Perform pre-tillage operations
   • Land clearing activities are done according to topography
   • Tools, materials and equipment are made ready for land preparation
   • Safety procedures is followed according to OSHS
   • Machinery services are sourced out following work requirement
   • Dikes are constructed and repaired according to industry standard procedures
2. Conduct tillage operations
   • Tillage operation is carried-out according to standard tillage practices.
   • Tillage operation is monitored following established industry procedures
   • Safety measures are practiced according to OSH standards
3. Perform post-tillage operations
   • Damaged dikes are repaired following standard industry procedures.
   • Proper wastes disposal is practice following environmental rules and regulations.
   • Transaction with the machinery service provider is completed with reference to work contract.
   • Record keeping is done following workplace procedures.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: CARRY OUT CROP ESTABLISHMENT
UNIT CODE: AFF611307

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to germinate seeds, conduct direct seeding operation and establish crop for transplanting.

1. Germinate seeds
   • Seed soaking is done according to industry standards
   • Seed is incubated following industry standards
   • Incubated seeds are examined for whitish dot as a sign of germination.
   • Germinated seeds are handled and transported to site following industry standards
   • Wearing of PPE is practiced following the OSHS standards
2. Conduct direct seeding operation
   • Tools, materials and equipment are prepared based on work requirements
   • Field is checked for readiness for direct seeding operation
   • Corrective measures are done based on the result of inspection
   • Prevention of pests is employed according to result of inspection
   • Direct seeding is performed following industry recommendations
   • Wearing of PPE is practiced according to OSHS standards.
   • Drum seeder is used following manufacturer’s manual
   • Post operation activities are performed based on workplace procedure.
3. Establish crop for transplanting
   • Tools, materials and equipment are prepared based on work requirements
   • Seedbed site is selected based on recommended criteria
   • Seedbed is prepared following industry standards
   • Seeds are sown following industry standards
   • Seedling management is applied following industry standards
   • Wearing of safety gears are practiced according to OSHS standards
   • Post operation activities are performed based on workplace procedure
   • Pre- transplanting activities are done following industry standards
   • Crop insurance is applied for based on recommendation of the industry

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : MANAGE CROP GROWTH
UNIT CODE: AFF611308

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to conduct nutrient management, perform water management, carry-out pest management, conduct management of abiotic stresses and conduct seed purification activity.

1. Conduct nutrient management
   • Soil fertility is determined using recommended assessment methods
   • Kinds of fertilizer are selected based on soil analysis and crop requirement
   • Amount of fertilizer is computed based on industry recommendations
   • Fertilizer is applied according to recommendations
2. Perform water management
   • Water need is assessed based on ecosystem
   • Water management strategy is applied based on different cultural crop management
   • Water conservation is employed based on established farm practices
   • Ocular monitoring is conducted to observe the depth of water
3. Carry-out pest management
   • Occurrence of pests and diseases is assessed following industry standard procedures
   • Pests and diseases management is adopted based on industry standard procedures
   • Regular field monitoring is conducted based on industry procedures
   • Action is taken to prevent further crop damages and losses.
4. Conduct management of abiotic stresses
   • Assessment of abiotic stresses is done following industry standard procedures
   • Abiotic stress management is adopted based on industry standards
   • Regular field monitoring is conducted based on industry procedures
   • Action is taken based on the result of monitoring activities
5. Conduct seed purification activity
   • Area is selected for seed purification activity based on recommended criteria.
   • Off-types are removed following established farm procedures
   • Disposal of off-types is done following established farm procedures
   • Seeds are harvested based on maturity indices.
   • Post- harvest operations are done separately for seed production

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : CONDUCT HARVEST AND POST-HARVEST OPERATIONS
UNIT CODE : AFF611309

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to carry out pre-harvest, carryout harvesting activity and carry out postharvest operations.

1. Carry out preharvest operation
   • Matured crop is determined based on physiological growth and physical indicators
   • Records of crop agronomic history is verified and referenced for maturity
   • Records are verified for harvesting activities following established farm procedures
   • Weather condition is monitored based on weather forecast
   • Rice field is drained of water according to recommended industry practices
   • Obstructions from the field are removed for efficient harvesting
   • Harvesting tools and materials are prepared following work requirement.
   • Machinery services are obtained for harvest and post-harvest operations.
2. Carry out harvesting activity
   • Appropriate harvesting methods are implemented based on best cultural practices
   • Pilling is done based on recommended practices
   • PPE is worn according to OSHS
   • Harvesting tools are used according to work requirement
   • Mechanical harvesting is monitored following work requirement
3. Carry out postharvest operations
   • Postharvest operations are done based on recommended technologies
   • Use of post- harvest equipment and facilities are monitored to avoid grain damage and losses
   • Handling and packaging are done according to variety and destination
   • Bags of palay are stored in an appropriate storage area
   • Monitoring of storage pests and diseases is done based on recommended practices

COMMON COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : APPLY SAFETY MEASURES IN FARM OPERATIONS
UNIT CODE : AFF321201

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform safety measures effectively and efficiently. It includes identifying areas, tools, materials, time and place in performing safety measures.

1. Determine areas of concern for safety measures
   • Work tasks are identified in line with farm operations
   • Place for safety measures are determined in line with farm operations
   • Time for safety measures are determined in line with farm operations
   • Appropriate tools, materials and outfits are prepared in line with job requirements
2. Apply appropriate safety measures
   • Tools and materials are used according to specifications and procedures
   • Outfits are worn according to farm requirements
   • Effectivity/shelf life/expiration of materials are strictly observed
   • Emergency procedures are known and followed to ensure a safe work requirement
   • Hazards in the workplace are identified and reported in line with farm guidelines
3. Safe keep/dispose tools, materials and outfit
   • Used tools and outfit are cleaned after use and stored in designated areas
   • Unused materials are properly labeled and stored according to manufacturers recommendation and farm requirements
   • Waste materials are disposed according to manufacturers, government and farm requirements

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : USE FARM TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
UNIT CODE : AFF321202

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to use farm tools and equipment. It includes selection, operation and preventive maintenance of farm tools and equipment.

1. Select and use farm tools
   • Appropriate farm tools are identified according to requirement / use
   • Farm tools are checked for faults and defective tools reported in accordance with farm procedures
   • Appropriate tools are safely used according to job requirements and manufacturers conditions
2. Select and operate farm equipment
   • Identify appropriate farm equipment
   • Instructional manual of the farm tools and equipment are carefully read prior to operation
   • Pre-operation checkup is conducted in line with manufacturers manual
   • Faults in farm equipment are identified and reported in line with farm procedures
   • Farm equipment used according to its function
   • Safety procedures are followed.
3. Perform preventive maintenance
   • Tools and equipment are cleaned immediately after use in line with farm procedures
   • Routine check-up and maintenance are performed
   • Tools and equipment are stored in designated areas in line with farm procedures

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PERFORM ESTIMATION AND BASIC CALCULATION
UNIT CODE : AFF321203

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform basic workplace calculations.

1. Perform estimation
   • Job requirements are identified from written or oral communications
   • Quantities of materials and resources required to complete a work task are estimated
   • The time needed to complete a work activity is estimated
   • Accurate estimate for work completion are made
   • Estimate of materials and resources are reported to appropriate person
2. Perform basic workplace calculation
   • System and units of measurement to be followed are ascertained
   • Calculation needed to complete work tasks are performed using the four basic mathematical operation
   • Calculate whole fraction, percentage and mixed when are used to complete the instructions
   • Number computed is checked following work requirements

BASIC COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PARTICIPATE IN WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION
UNIT CODE : 500311105

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to gather, interpret and convey information in response to workplace requirements.

1. Obtain and convey workplace information
   • Specific and relevant information is accessed from appropriate sources
   • Effective questioning, active listening and speaking skills are used together and convey information
   • Appropriate medium is used to transfer information and ideas
   • Appropriate non- verbal communication is used
   • Appropriate lines of communication with supervisors and colleagues are identified and followed
   • Defined workplace procedures for the location and storage of information are used
   • Personal interaction is carried out clearly and concisely
2. Participate in workplace meetings and discussions
   • Team meetings are at ended on time
   • Own opinions are clear expressed and those of others are listened to without interruption
   • Meeting inputs are consistent with the meeting purpose and established protocols
   • Workplace interactions are conducted in a courteous manner
   • Questions about simple routine workplace procedures and matters concerning working conditions of employment are asked and responded to.
   • Meetings outcomes are interpreted and implemented
3. Complete relevant work related documents
   • Range of forms relating to conditions of employment are completed accurately and legibly
   • Workplace data is recorded on standard workplace forms and documents
   • Basic mathematical processes are used for routine calculations
   • Errors in recording information on forms/documents are identified and properly acted upon
   • Reporting requirements to supervisor are completed according to organizational guidelines

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : WORK IN TEAM ENVIRONMENT
UNIT CODE : 500311106

This unit covers the skills, knowledge and attitudes to identify role and responsibility as a member of a team.

1. Describe team role and scope
   • The role and objective of the team is identified from available sources of information
   • Team parameters, reporting relationships and responsibilities are identified from team discussions and appropriate external sources.
2. Identify own role and responsibility within team
   • Individual role and responsibilities within the team environment are identified.
   • Roles and responsibility of other team members are identified and recognized.
   • Reporting relationships within team and external to team are identified.
3. Work as a team member
   • Effective and appropriate forms of communications used and interactions undertaken with team members who contribute to known team activities and objectives.
   • Effective and appropriate contributions made to complement team activities and objectives, based on individual skills and competencies and workplace context.
   • Observed protocols in reporting using standard operating procedures.
   • Contribute to the development of team work plans based on an understanding of team’s role and objectives and individual competencies of the members.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PRACTICE CAREER PROFESSIONALISM
UNIT CODE : 500311107

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes in promoting career growth and advancement.

1. Integrate personal objectives with organizational goals
   • Personal growth and work plans are pursued towards improving the qualifications set for the profession
   • Intra- and interpersonal relationships is are maintained in the course of managing oneself based on performance evaluation
   • Commitment to the organization and its goal is demonstrated in the performance of duties
2. Set and meet work priorities
   • Competing demands are prioritized to achieve personal, team and organizational goals and objectives.
   • Resources are utilized efficiently and effectively to manage work priorities and commitments
   • Practices along economic use and maintenance of equipment and facilities are followed as per established procedures
3. Maintain professional growth and development
   • Trainings and career opportunities are identified and availed of based on job requirements
   • Recognitions are sought/received and demonstrated as proof of career advancement
   • Licenses and/or certifications relevant to job and career are obtained and renewed

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : DEVELOP CAREER AND LIFE DECISIONSUNIT OF COMPETENCY : PRACTICE  OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
UNIT CODE : 500311108

This unit covers the outcomes required to comply with regulatory and organizational requirements for occupational health and safety.

1. Identify hazards and risks
   • Safety regulations and workplace safety and hazard control practices and procedures are clarified and explained based on organization procedures
   • Hazards/risks in the workplace and their corresponding indicators are identified to minimize or eliminate risk to co-workers, workplace and environment in accordance with organization procedures
   • Contingency measures during workplace accidents, fire and other emergencies are recognized and established in accordance with organization procedures
2. Evaluate hazards and risks
   • Terms of maximum tolerable limits which when exceeded will result in harm or damage are identified based on threshold limit values (TLV)
   • Effects of the hazards are determined
   • OHS issues and/or concerns and identified safety hazards are reported to designated personnel in accordance with workplace requirements and relevant workplace OHS legislation
3. Control hazards and risks
   • Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) procedures for controlling hazards/risks in workplace are consistently
     followed
   • Procedures for dealing with workplace accidents, fire and emergencies are followed in accordance with organization OHS policies
   • Personal protective equipment (PPE) is correctly used in accordance with organization OHS procedures and practices
   • Appropriate assistance is provided in the event of a workplace emergency in accordance with established organization protocol
4. Maintain OHS awareness
   • Emergency-related drills and trainings are participated in as per established organization guidelines and procedures
   • OHS personal records are completed and updated in accordance with workplace requirements

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

• 3Rs – Reduce, Re-use, and Recycle
• ABIOTIC – Non living thing the abiotic factor at the environment include light temperature and atmospheric gases
• AWD – Alternate wet and dry
• BIOTIC – of or having to do with or living organism, produce or caused by living organism
• CLIMATE CHANGE – records changes over decades to millions of years
• CLIMATE – average and variations of weather over a long period of time (30 years)
• CLEANING – removal of unnecessary materials/debris in the field; is an essential postharvest operation which is done by removing foreign seeds and other impurities
• CRH – Carbonized Rice Hull
• DEHUSKING – process of removing outer covering of corn ears
• DIKES – levees or bunds enclosing a field
• DRY LAND TILLAGE – plowing and harrowing dry soil or upland fields
• DRYING – the process of reducing moisture content through the process of heat transfer by converting water in the grains to a vapor which is brought to the atmosphere
• FARMALITE – a tool use to directly sow corn seeds
• GRAIN QUALITY – is a combination of physical and chemical characteristics which are considered desirable
• HARVEST – the process or period of gathering in mature crops by cutting the panicles attached to the stalks
• LAND PREPARATION – the process of preparing the soil for planting.
• MILLING – involves the removal of hull and bran from rough rice to produce milled rice or white rice
• MOISTURE CONTENT – is the quantity of water contained in a material or grain at a given time
• OFF TYPE – Means any seed or plant not a part of the variety in that deviates
• OSHS – Occupational Safety Hazzard Standard
• PhilGAP – Philippine Good Agricultural Practices
• PPE – Protective Polyethylene Equipment
• POSTHARVEST – encompasses the sequence of activities and operations from the time and place of harvest to the time and place of consumption
• RIVERINE – area of crop production along the river banks
• SHELLING – removal of grains from the cob
• SICKLE – a farming tool with a long curved blade and long handle that is used for cutting grains
• SIDE PLOWING – passing the plow along the edges of the field (near the dikes)
• SIPS – Soak, Incubate, Prepare the area for sowing and Sow the pre-germinated seeds
• STORAGE – the preservation of quality and quantity of palay/rice for future use.
• TILLAGE – is the process of mechanically altering some physical characteristics of the soil to obtain a condition more appropriate for growing crops
• THRESHING – the process of detaching and separating rice grains from the panicle
• UPLAND – a land area that does not impound water, not confined to higher elevation alone.
• WEATHER – all natural phenomena within the atmosphere at a given time (hours to days)
• WETLAND TILLAGE – preparing the soil of lowland fields in a saturated or flooded condition
• WEED – weed is a plant considered undesirable in a particular situation a plant in the wrong place.