Case study in wood science

Case studies are a stimulating part of training and learning that aim to develop not only students' knowledge, but above all the know-how and interpersonal skills of managers and executives, through real-life situations in business, industry, or research related to the forestry and wood sector. Case studies are therefore geared towards active learning by students through group reflection and discussion in a real-life situation.

The various topics of study are proposed by industrialists, professionals, researchers, and research professors. The themes of the topics are interdisciplinary, scientific, technical, or socio-economic.

To meet the client's requirements, students draw on their prior knowledge and combine it with their newly acquired knowledge. Supervised by one or more academic tutors, the group of students will be responsible for developing instructions, procedures, specifications, reports, and study findings based on the results of tests, trials, and/or surveys in order to meet the client's request. Dialogue with peers, through exchange, confrontation, or argumentation, contributes greatly to the successful completion of this project.

The EU "Case Study in Wood Science" aims to place students, within a group, in a situation where they must respond to a realistic call for tenders proposed by professionals. This request may be a specific research topic in wood science or an issue (scientific, social, and/or economic) related to the wood industry.

- Know how to conduct a case study, define an issue, and develop a summary, comparative, and critical analysis.

- Apply the theoretical concepts learned in class to a real-life situation.

- Adopt a multidisciplinary approach in relation to wood science and the wood industry.

- Determine and develop methods for researching, collecting, and analyzing data.

- Develop guidelines, procedures, specifications, and study reports based on the results of tests, trials, and/or surveys. 

- Improve your ability to express yourself and communicate with professionals and educational tutors.

- Develop your ability to solve problems related to the wood industry.

- Submit a summary of the study and the results obtained in the form of a scientific publication.

- Express yourself orally and in writing (in French and English, respectively) using general and technical vocabulary.

- Understand your role and mission within a group in order to adapt and take initiative.

- Work both as part of a team and independently, taking responsibility for a project.