UF/IFAS Core 2 Tutorial

This UF/IFAS computer-verified training tutorial on pesticide labeling is based on Chapter 2 of the USDA/EPA publication, Applying Pesticides Correctly. However, this tutorial makes extensive use of graphics to assist in explaining the concepts within the text taken from that publication. Plus there are many other advantages for self-study including interactive training, questions to judge short term and long term mastery of the material, and the ability to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in certain states.

The first section of Core2: Pesticide Labeling is a short sequence on using the program. The remaining four sections are:

Pesticide Labeling comes with a self-install program that creates the necessary directories as it copies itself to your hard drive. The program uses 11 MB of hard disk space and runs under Windows.

Once installed, new users should access the short section entitled "Using This Tutorial."

The tutorial contains over 400 screens of information and graphics. Working through the tutorial takes about two hours, but you can leave in the middle to take a break, go to lunch, meet a client, or work. This is because you have the ability to leave a "personalized bookmark" that lets you pick up where you left off. Each user can leave a different bookmark, allowing one program to support many trainees.

Each step of the tutorial provides information and a graphic on a concept dealing with pesticide labeling. Once you have read the information you then advance to the question on that concept. Only by making the correct response can you advance through the tutorial. An incorrect reponse sends you to a screen where additonal information is provided to help you answer the question. You must then return to the question screen. When the question has been answered correctly, you can then advance to the next concept.

At the end of the tutorial, users have the option of quitting the program, returning to the main menu, or taking a 20-question test. The test covers information presented in the tutorial, and as you answer each question you are told whether your answer was right or wrong. The final screen lets you know if you passed the test or need to review the information in the tutorial.

If you pass the test, you have the option of printing a black and white diploma with the test name, your name and a space for your supervisor to sign and date. Please note that users can continue to retake the test until a passing score is achieved, as this is a training tutorial and not a certification test. The tutorial also can be used for instructional purposes without requiring a user to take the test.

Test results are printed as explained in the documentation that accompanies the program. This printed information is required to obtain CEUs in Core for Florida and perhaps other states. A copy can also be placed in the user's personnel or academic folder.

To apply for CEUs in Florida see below. For other states click here.

To apply for CEUs in Florida, the student must pass the test (80% score required) and:

• print one copy of the test results or diploma,
  
• print and fill out one copy of the "short form" mentioned above,
  
• send these with a $10 fee (payable to the University of Florida)to the CEU Verification Office, Bldg 970 Natural Area Drive, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-0640. Please do not send cash.

In addition to those working with pesticides, Core2: Pesticide Labeling is also an excellent tutorial for students studying any course that discusses pesticide use.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has certified the Core2: Pesticide Labeling tutorial for two (2) Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in the Core and General Studies/Core categories in the state of Florida. Complete instructions for applying for these CEUs are supplied with each copy of the tutorial. While one copy should only be installed on one computer, an unlimited number of users can earn their Core CEUs through a single copy of Core2: Pesticide Labeling. Applicators in other states must check with their state's regulatory agency to see if they can earn CEUs using this program.

However, once an individual uses that specific tutorial to obtain a CEU in Florida, he or she can not use that specific tutorial to earn CEUs again until a new number is assigned to it. The current numbers are good for the years 2006 through 2009. Licensed applicators who used UF/IFAS CEU tutorials before January 1, 2006 may use them again during the 2006-2009 period. A new number will then be assigned for the years 2010-1013.

Core2: Pesticide Labeling (SW-105) is delivered on an auto-run CD-ROM that installs the tutorial on your PC's hard drive. Cost is $25. Quantity and reseller discounts available. Call the UF IFAS/Extension Bookstore at (352) 392-1764 or (800) 226-1764 or order online.

Funds earned through the sale of this software go toward the development of additional insect and pesticide-related software at the University of Florida, and to support the UF CEU Verification Office.

Core2: Pesticide Labeling has a companion tutorial on Emergency Response to Harmful Pesticide Effects, Heat Stress and Heat Stroke.