625-308 Digital Geoscience

Credit cannot be gained for this subject and 625-211 (in 2003).

At least 50 points selected from Earth sciences 625-201, 625-222, 625-203, 625-223, 625-224 or 625-202 is strongly recommended.

The rapid acceleration in the development and deployment of a wide range of Earth-observing satellite systems, and of digital spatial information technology in general, has fundamentally changed the way in which Earth and environmental scientists observe and monitor the Earth's environment and its resources. In addition recent advances in computer-based three dimensional modelling and visualisation technology have revolutionised the way geoscientists can view, manipulate and interact with complex geospatial datasets.

This subject examines the wide range of digital geoscience information available and provides hands-on experience of computer software and methods which enable this type of information to be processed and integrated with field-based observations. Topics will include data acquisition and management, the use of geographic information systems (GIS) and global positioning systems (GPS), digital image manipulation and analysis, three dimensional modelling and visualisation and computer-based simulation of Earth systems. Students will be taught how these techniques are used in research and exploration environments and will apply them to create their own two and three dimensional digital datasets and maps.

Four equally weighted practical exercises to be completed during the scheduled sessions including written reports not exceeding 3000 words in total due during the semester (40% total); a 2-hour written examination in the examination period (60%).