Module Identifier EAM1320  
Module Title FUNDAMENTALS OF REMOTE SENSING AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS  
Academic Year 2005/2006  
Co-ordinator Dr Richard M Lucas  
Semester Semester 1  
Other staff Dr Aled P Rowlands  
Course delivery Lecture    
  Practical    
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Assessment Computing and statistical skills report based on RS (4,000 words) 50%50%
Semester Assessment Computing and Statistical skills report based on GIS (4,000 words) 50%50%
Supplementary Assessment Resubmit failed reports 

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
1. List, describe and evaluate main sources of GIS and remote sensing data.

2. Understand the functionality of commercial GIS and remote sensing software.

3. Design and implement basic routines for processing and analysis of GIS/remote sensing data.

4. Independently program GIS and remote sensing software (e.g., IDL, ENVI, Visual Basic).

Brief description

The course provides an advanced introduction to GIS, covering topics that include the basic concepts of GIS, data sources and data entry, manipulation and analysis of GIS data and statistical procedures. The remote sensing component focuses on the use of data acquired by airborne and spaceborne sensors and the computer analysis and interpretation of such data. This module also focuses on digital photogrammetric techniques and the analysis of hyperspectral data. Throughout the module, students are given first hand experience in the use of both GIS and image analysis software.

Content

Introduction to GIS data, including sources of data, the basic characteristics of vector and raster systems, the integration of tabular data and the role of databases.   A range of GIS software will be introduced.   

Introduction to remote sensing data acquired by both airborne and spaceborne sensors.   The lectures will provide a comprehensive overview of the types of remote sensing data available and the characteristics that make them well suited for specific applications.   

Principles of remote sensing. Introduction to image analysis software, basics of image formation and processing, including image construction, display, enhancement and manipulation, spatial filtering and standard classification techniques.   

Statistics in remote sensing and GIS with particularly emphasis on geostatistical analysis.   

Introduction to programming for GIS and remote sensing applications, including visual basic, map objects and IDL.   

Aerial photography including interpretation and an introduction to photogrammetric techniques.   

Introduction to spectral signatures, hyperspectral remote sensing and data extraction, and basic applications in geology and vegetation science. Processing of hyperspectral data including spectral unmixing, spectral maths, endmember collection and advanced classification techniques.

Module Skills

Problem_solving Computer programming and development of statistical skills.  
Research skills Basic strategies relating to data sources and data collection, data integration and processing within the framework of a GIS and effective analysis and interpretation of remote sensing data.  
Communication Skills report writing and submission of a discussion paper. Discussion groups within the blackboard teaching and learning environment.  
Improving own Learning and Performance Library and web-based referencing.  
Team work Formulation of arguments in group discussion paper.  
Information Technology Use of commercial GIS and remote sensing software for practical applications. Specific skills in programming and statistical analyses.  
Personal Development and Career planning Provision of advice and information on careers.  
Subject Specific Skills Imaging processing and geographical analysis  

Reading Lists

Books
** Recommended Text
Burrough, P.A. & McDonnell, R.A. (1998) Principles of Geographical Information Systems Oxford University Press
Dent, B.D. (1999) Cartography: Thematic Map Design 5th. WCB McGraw-Hill, Boston
Lillesand, T.M. & Kiefer, R.W. (2000) Remote Sensing and Image Interpretation 3rd. John Wiley & Sons, New York
Martin, D. (1996) Geographic Information Systems 2nd. Routledge
Richards, J.A. (2000) Remote Sensing Digital Image Analysis 3rd. Springer-Verlag, Berlin
Campbell, J.B. (1996) Introduction to Remote Sensing 2nd. Taylor & Francis, London
Sabins, F.F. (1997) Remote Sensing: Principles and Interpretation WH Freeman and Company, New York

Journals
Lucas, R. M., Held, A. and Phinn, S. (2003) Remote Sensing of Tropical Forests. Manual of Remote Sensing: Natural Resources and Environment. S. L. Ustin. 5
Malthus, T. J. and P. J. Mumby (2003) Remote sensing of the coastal zone: an overview and priorities for future research. International Journal of Remote Sensing 24(13): 2805-2815.
Voogt, J. A. and T. R. Oke ( 2003) Thermal remote sensing of urban climates. Remote Sensing of Environment 86(3): 370-384

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 7