Fundamentals of geoinformatics and remote sensing

Module title:

Fundamentals of geoinformatics and remote sensing

Module overview:

This module introduces students to the concepts of spatial data, geoinformation systems and remote sensing through an introduction to data models, data structures, spatial data collection methods and their practical use. This module represents the basis for mastering the basic concepts related to spatial data and their manipulation. The main objectives of the module are:
Become familiar with spatial data, coordinate systems, data models, raster, and vector representations.
Become familiar with the basics of geoinformation systems, remote sensing, and GPS positioning.
Become familiar with the methods of collecting, processing, and analysing spatial data.
Develop basic practical skills in the use and visualization of spatial data by solving problem tasks in the domain of geoinformatics and remote sensing.

The module does not require any previous experience in working with spatial data. It is taught using practical examples to gain a functional level of use of the newly acquired knowledge as soon as possible. The module evaluation is based on solving various tasks in available software packages and developing own simple solutions in the development environment and their visualizations.
In this module students will learn:
basic concepts of geoinformatics and remote sensing (data types, processing methods, transformations, index calculation, image calibration, etc.)
basic concepts of positioning systems (GNSS) and methods of determining the position on the earth and its models (geoid, spheroid, sphere).
how to implement acquired knowledge to successfully solve problems related to spatial queries and analyses.
about satellite missions and other sources of spatial data.
how to create and use spatial queries.
how to transfer data between vector and raster forms and perform analysis on them.
how to perform data processing based on existing multispectral, hyperspectral and radar data.
how to use basic functions for data visualization.
how to transform simple problems into a set of spatial queries.

Literature:

Required readings:
1. Bolstad, P. (2016) GIS fundamentals: a first text on geographic information systems. 6th edn. Ann Arbor: XanEdu Publishing Inc.
2. Jian Guo, L., Mason, P. J. (2016) Image processing and GIS for remote sensing: techniques and applications. 2nd edn. Hoboken: John Wiley and Sons.

Supplementary readings:
1. Quantum GIS training manual: