The field study was attended by 86 students, 20 teaching assistants, and 6 lecturers, with support from a staff member (curator of the ITB Zoological Museum), three medical personnel, and three field guides.

The main objective of the fieldwork was to collect data on vegetation, arthropods (insects), birds, and environmental factors (including soil) within a tropical montane rainforest ecosystem. Data collection took place in the conservation area of Mount Papandayan Nature Reserve, located in Cisurupan District, Garut Regency. Other activities included trekking across the crater in the Mount Papandayan Nature Park area to observe the surrounding ecosystem and study succession processes following the 2002 volcanic eruption.

Dr. Noviana Budianti, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., lecturer of the Forest Ecology and Soil Science Practicum, explained that Mount Papandayan was chosen not only because it represents the characteristics of a post-eruption natural forest ecosystem, but also due to its proximity to ITB Jatinangor Campus.

“As a conservation area with Nature Reserve status, Mount Papandayan still maintains a well-preserved ecosystem, making it an ideal location for students to study forest characteristics in natural conditions. It also includes areas affected by volcanic eruptions, offering opportunities to observe and learn about primary succession that occurs after major disturbances,” she explained.

She noted that the team encountered several challenges in the field, including weather conditions, elevation, and steep terrain.

She expressed hope that the field study would enhance students’ understanding of the material they had previously learned on campus.

“The field study is expected to help students deepen their understanding of the subjects covered in class. Therefore, by evaluating the implementation of this year’s field course, we hope that future programs can be improved—both in terms of the content explored and the technical execution,” she stated.

Translator Indira Akmalia Hendri