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Home > Outreach & Education >Technological Tools for Field Research

Technological Tools for Field Research

Outreach & Education
Technology is rapidly changing the way we conduct biological investigations in the field. Advancements in computer and data storage technology afford the researcher an opportunity to store large amounts of data quickly and efficiently. In the past decade, the emergence of personal geographic information system (GIS) has allowed biologist to view data in ways that were previously impossible. Other technological advancements like remote sensing and global positioning systems (GPS) provide companion information to a GIS. It is important that biologist gain a basic understanding of what these tools are, how they work, and what information they provide.

This course will serve as an introduction to these tools. It will also introduce the concepts of of spatial relationships and scale that are integral to using these tools to their fullest potential. The goal of this course is to provide each student with the training needed to operate these instruments and the foundation to use the data they collect in biological and ecological research.


The objectives of this course are

  • To train students in the use of GPS units, GIS software, and spatial data.
  • To introduce the concept of spatial relationships, scale, and landscape ecology.
  • To complete a student designed project utilizing course materials and equipment.
Overview
Courses
Projects
Contact
Who Should Attend
  

Employees of federal, state, local, and foreign natural resource agencies, NGOs, universities, and private businesses interested in itegrating GIS into their research. Knowledge of GIS and remote sensing principles is not necessary. The class includes both instructor-led sessions and hands-on exercises. Handouts and other materials are provided to participants.

 
Syllabus
  
  • How GPS works
  • How to operate several models of GPS units
  • How to correct GPS data in the lab
  • What is a GIS
  • Spatial theory
  • Database integration to a GIS
  • Metadata Reporting
  • Remote Sensing
  • Gathering spatial data
  • Landscape Ecology

Students will be asked to complete a project that will require them to collect data in the field, integrate the data in a GIS, and utilize spatial theory to answer a research question.

 
Cost
  
Contact for cost information.  
Contact  
Andrew Rosenberger
1900 Kraft Drive Suite 250
Moss Building, Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Phone:(540) 231-7348
E-mail: anrosenb@vt.edu