GRS-60312 Remote Sensing and GIS Integration

Course

Credits 12.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

GRS-10306 Introduction Geo-information Science; GRS-20306 Remote Sensing; GRS-20806 Geo-information Tools.

Continuation courses:

MSc Thesis (eg GRS-70436 MSc Internship Geo-information Science and Remote Sensing); MSc Internship (eg GRS-70424 MSc Internship Geo-information Science and Remote Sensing).

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. In the first part of the course the students will prepare a design for an integrated monitoring system which includes problem analysis, assessment of geo-data sources and quality, fieldwork and validation plan, and the preparation of a visualization and communication plan.
The second part of the course involves the execution of a project in the geo-spatial domain for an external client . Teams of 5 students with a multidisciplinary and preferably a multicultural background are assigned a project and carry out a design type study. 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 synthesizing knowledge from different disciplines. 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:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- design an integrated monitoring system for a specified environmental process according to the concepts of integration in the geo-information cycle;
- formulate a project plan (define results, suitable phasing of activities and distribution of tasks among team members) and contribute interactively to the determination of the goals of the project with a client (third party);
- design and test a processing protocol for calibration or validation of a geo-spatial model according to the formulated project goals;
- select and integrate information gathered in their disciplinary field and produce 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;
- analyse and reflect on communication and co-operation with group members, client, process coach, content expert and other parties involved during the various stages of the project;
- organize and accomplish 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 practicals on integrated monitoring approaches, validation of geo-spatial products and geo-visualization and communication;
- 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:

- the examination is based on group work (reports from practical (40%), project proposal (10%);
- group project report (25%) and individual paper (written self-assessment, reflection paper and process (25%).
A minimum requirement for the different assessments is = 5.5. The course guide gives details on the assessment procedure.

Literature:

Per subject relevant literature will be provided.