KE6018 - Advanced Geospatial Applications

In this module, you will learn theoretical concepts and key principles through seminars and interactive workshops, and you will learn how to apply advanced geospatial techniques through supervised IT practicals. Timetabled sessions will be supported by recorded lectures on specific topics in a ‘flipped classroom’ model, with seminars and workshops focused on discussion and practical tasks. In addition, you will be provided with a range of interactive learning resources accessible on-line via the module eLP site, including electronic reading lists and other resources.

You will develop your practical and technical skills with guided exercises with directed learning between sessions, including engagement with pre-recorded materials. The IT workshops will allow you to engage with and apply advanced geospatial techniques which you will be able to apply to your own project work. The IT workshops are supervised but you will be expected to finish the project work in your own time whilst exploring in more detail, in the literature and using online resources, examples of how techniques you are learning about have been implemented in research or in the public and private sector as well as identifying and teaching yourself additional technical skills to add to what you have been taught.

Module content and guidance will be made available by your module tutor in lectures as well as via the virtual learning platform, Blackboard. During IT sessions, you will interact closely with teaching staff who will provide formative support (demonstrations are often provided at the start of the class) and feedback on activities leading up to the assessment tasks. You will also benefit from interaction and problem solving with your fellow students in working through guided exercises.

An interactive reading list with on-line access to a number of key articles is available to you, some of which will be linked to the weekly lecture programme. Teaching staff operate an ‘open door’ policy for students meaning you can approach them anytime during normal office hours, or via email, to answer questions, receive feedback and support your learning on the module.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

Knowledge & Understanding:

MLO 1: Critically evaluate and review the process of method design in a geospatial context

MLO 2: Critically evaluate the implementation of geospatial techniques using real-world examples in both research and practice.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

MLO 3: Independently, develop research questions / hypotheses and design an appropriate methodology based on evidence

MLO 4: Competently gather and generate appropriate geospatial data and outputs using appropriate techniques and software tools.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

MLO 5: Develop a critical and ethical awareness of the design and resulting impact of geospatial technologies in policy and practice.

Summative assessment:

Project Proposal - 2000 words

(Weighted 50% of module mark)

This assessment is focused on the production of a project proposal for your chosen geospatial application.

This assessment task will require you to design a method, budget, and timeline focused on answering set terms of reference, justifying digital datasets you have selected and presenting a repeatable flow of actions (workflow) that you will need to implement using appropriate software and tools in order to generate relevant outputs.

You will be expected to creatively use tables, figures, and diagrams to get this information across effectively. Addresses MLOs 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.

Individual Project 2500 words

(Weighted 50% of module mark)

Based on the proposal developed in the first assignment, and using feedback provided, you are asked to submit a project in the style of a consultancy report. You will present the method and your results in the context of a critical and ethical review of the application. Addresses MLOs 1, 2, 3, 4.

Formative assessment/support process:

You will receive formative feedback on work to be submitted during practical classes where you can float ideas or obtain formative feedback on thinking processes and assignment tackling strategies you and your peers are developing. This will provide guidance on the expected style and standard of work, and develop your confidence and engagement.

Before the submission of your project, you have the opportunity to submit material of your choice for formative feedback.

KE5017 Earth Observation and GIS

None

Many real-world problems have a geospatial component, for example identifying the best location for an asset, tracking environmental changes through time or modelling future change under different conditions. Delivering projects of this kind requires a diverse skillset, from identifying project objectives, to developing methodologies, to problem solving, to deploying advanced geospatial techniques and approaches.

This module simulates the development and delivery of an applied geospatial analysis project, training you in the fundamentals of project design and management, as well as introducing you to a range of advanced skills and geospatial techniques. Combined with your knowledge and understanding of geospatial datasets gained in this and other modules you will have the skills to enter straight into the geospatial job market.