GRS-32306 Advanced Earth Observation

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

GRS-20306 Remote Sensing.

Continuation courses:

GRS-60312 Remote Sensing and GIS Integration; GRS thesis (eg GRS-80436 MSc Thesis Geo-information Science and Remote Sensing).

Contents:

This course is providing students the opportunity to acquire further knowledge in the field of earth observation on advanced topics, such as radiative transfer models for biophysical parameter retrieval of vegetation, LiDAR for deriving forest structure, object-oriented image analysis, methods for monitoring vegetation dynamics and change detection, and innovative approaches for in-situ calibration and validation. Next to lectures and practical's, part of the course focuses on performing a small research project, possibly as starting point for a thesis topic. Training on how to report results through a scientific paper is part of the course.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge on advanced earth observation topics taught in the course;
- critically evaluate earth observation research presented during the course;
- analyse the use of innovative earth observation techniques for various applications;
- create state-of-the-art earth observation solutions for specific applications;
- show awareness of innovative earth observation developments;
- apply the acquired knowledge through practical exercises;
- set up research independently in a project and reflect on the results obtained;
- report the outcome of the project through a scientific paper.

Activities:

- acquiring advanced knowledge through lectures of leading remote sensing experts and gaining hands on experiences through practicals;
- provide critical feedback and discussions on specific presentations given by earth observation experts with focus on innovative applications;
- perform a chosen research project using innovative approaches and technologies available at WU (i.e. image processing algorithms, ground-based LiDAR, plant facility laboratory);
- report on the obtained results as a scientific paper using the IMRAD structure and making use of EndNote.

Examination:

- written examination (50%);
- assessment of the research paper (50%).
The course guide gives details on the assessment procedure.

Literature:

Selected papers will be provided depending on the subjects taught and a course specific practical manual.