A study pack to introduce postharvest technology of fruits and vegetables to advanced level biology students

Abstract

A sound knowledge in fruit and vegetable biology is required in developing post harvest techniques, of fruits and vegetables. It is a technology to aimed at reducing the rate of deterioration: of fruits and vegetables during the period between harvest and consumption. This requires an understanding of structure, composition biochemistry, physiology microbiology and biological pest control to slow down the metabolism of fruit or vegetable.’ Theory and practical knowledge that is included in the A/L biology syllabus is sufficient to understand the basic concepts of the post harvest technology. There is a tremendous trend for the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables in most parts of the world as people are concerned about a nutritious diet. There is a good export markets for fresh fruits and vegetables in developing countries and tourism also attract fruit and vegetable market. Sri Lanka is an agricultural country. A good knowledge of post harvest technology of fruits and vegetables will have many avenues open for youngsters. Such a knowledge would be useful as consumers as well. Introduction of post harvest technology directly to the A/L curriculum needs hard work involving much planning. Therefore production of a self guided study pack was thought to be an effective way of introducing this subject. The study pack includes a students guide, album of photo sheets posters, reading booklets and an audio cassettes in an attractive compact case. Although the production of a study pack entails high cost, careful planning and is time consuming, it is a highly acceptable mode of education used in most countries. To develop Sri Lanka’s teaching-learning system of Science education to match with the twenty first century, the government should make policies, offer funds and opportunities to introduce these new subject areas to the curriculum to make the students understand the importance of the theoretical knowledge they gain.