The module examines how satellite data is collected, manipulated, analysed, interpreted and used for environmental management. All aspects of satellite remote sensing are discussed including principles of radiation-surface interaction, field spectroscopy (hand-held radiometery), satellite design, applications (environmental water quality, biotic resource monitoring, geological / geomorphological studies and land use classification) and case studies, and computer image processing and interpretation (displaying images, contrast stretching, thematic indices and mapping, pattern recognition, edge-enhancement and classification analysis). Remote sensing as an environmental management tool will be evaluated for natural hazard management. Imagery from a variety of different world environments will be analysed and interpreted.

Cracknell, AP & LWB Hayes (2007) Introduction to Remote Sensing. (Francis & Taylor)
Gibson, P (2000) Introductory Remote Sensing Principles & Concepts. (Routledge)
Canadian Centre of Remote Sensing tutorials (http://ccrs.nrcan.gc.ca/resource/tutor/fundam/index_e.php)

The module will be delivered through a blended learning programme. Part of a two week summer school of 20 hours will include 5 x 3 1/2 hour class based sessions of substantive lectures and image processing workshops PLUS a 2 1/2 hour field based radiometry session. Post summer school learning will be delivered by an on-line VLE (Blackboard) support of 5 ACTIVITIES (10 hours per activity) over 10 weeks during the summer.

The lectures and VLE activities will provide the main knowledge framework for the module delivering keys concepts, issues and case studies and provide a foundation for the workshops and student independent study.

The remaining 80 hours of independent study will consist of directed study, assessment preparation and the 1 hour examination. Learning will be supported by a core textbook, the use of the Canadian Centre for Remote Sensing web tutorials and extensive reading lists primarily directing students to research articles in journals (e.g. Geocarto International) and on reputable remote sensing organisation research websites e.g. NASA.

Report - 70% - 1750-2000 words - Learning outcomes 1, 2, 5, 6.
Examination - 30% - 1 hour duration - Learning outcomes 3, 4, 5, 6

Additional Assessment Details:
The REPORT on a specific natural hazard application which will require a holistic, critical evaluation of the use of remote sensing to contribute to its understanding. This one report will require the students to draw on ALL the summer school lecture classes / VLE activities and apply as appropriate to their application bringing in data and imagery as appropriate.

For the EXAMINATION students will be required to answer ONE essay which will reflect and critically review the practical elements of the course. The questions will be based-upon the practical elements of the course and the formative portfolio they will collate from the workshop exercises demonstrating analysis, interpretation and understanding of: field spectroscopy, satellite data collection and image processing.

Formative Assessment:
Student will be given formative learning during the workshops. The students will also be given the opportunity to submit a project plans for the coursework on which feedback will be given. The formative portfolio will include a set of power-point slides to present a topic to intermediate level students on satellite design which will be formatively assessed.

University Library, School of Sciences Learning Resource Centre, Internet & Email facilities, Idrisi software.