GRS-60312 Remote Sensing and GIS Integration

Course

Credits 12.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

GRS-10306, GRS-20306, GRS-20806

Continuation courses:

MSc Thesis, MSc Internship

Contents:

This course focuses on the proper use of GIS- and Remote Sensing concepts, methods and data when contributing to a geo-spatial project within a group having a multidisciplinary background. The course starts with a theoretical and practical introduction to imaging spectroscopy, GPS and 3D geo-visualization as data acquisition, analysis and presentation techniques.
The main part of the course involves the execution of a project in the geo-spatial domain. Teams of 4 to 7 students with a multidisciplinary and preferably a multicultural background are assigned a project and carry out a design type study for an external client. Each team has an assigned process coach and a content expert relevant to the project. The project includes fieldwork, excursions, analysis and reporting and requires synthesising knowledge from different disciplines including remote sensing and Geo-information science. The project is evaluated in terms of process and applied research methods with specific focus on the formulated interdisciplinary synthesis of the compiled information and the resulting advice to the client.

Learning outcomes:

At the end of the course, the student is expected to be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge and skills on imaging spectroscopy and 3D geo-visualization;
- contribute interactively to the determination of the goals of a project with a client (third party) and formulate a project plan (define results, suitable phasing of activities and distribution of tasks among team members);
- implement formulated goals through design and test of a processing protocol for calibration or validation of a geo-spatial model;
- select and integrate information gathered in their disciplinary field into a project deliverable as appropriate to the interdisciplinary design and in conformity to disciplinary quality standards;
- demonstrate the understanding of the proper use of GIS- and remote sensing concepts, methods and data when carrying out a project from A to Z;
- communicate and co-operate effectively with group members, client, process coach, content expert and other parties involved during the various stages of the project;
- accomplishing tasks within given constraints on time and other resources;
- assess the contribution of themselves, team members and other stakeholders on team functioning and execution of project tasks and appropriately reflect on these and give feedback in writing and verbally.

Activities:

Additional skills and knowledge training:
- lectures and practical on imaging spectroscopy, geo-visualization and GPS;
- fieldwork and excursions;
- using GIS, geo-visualization and image processing software.
Team meetings:
- each student will assume a role with a clear task description: e.g. team manager, secretary, member;
- during the course, teams have formal meetings, which the process coach attends regularly. With the assistance of the coach students regularly reflect on the functioning of the team and of individual members;
- students compile a (self) assessment dossier;
- students organize and prepare meetings with the external client. During at least one the coach will be present as observer.
Project execution:
- teams prepare a project plan. It should at least contain problem definition, objective, proposed approach, activities and division of tasks, a planning chart, and involved risks. The plan is assessed by the client and a content coach/expert before a final plan is made. During project execution the group checks the work-plan and negotiates adjustments when and if needed;
- during project execution a division of tasks is needed, yet all members should actively work on synthesis and participate in the formulation of the final product and recommendations to the client.
Prepare project deliverables:
- oral presentation;
- project document;
- poster.

Examination:

Based on assessment of number of assignments, project proposal and research paper and contribution of individual group members to final result.

Literature:

Per subject relevant literature will be provided.