Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Remote sensing of the environment is a major tool used by a range of disciplines to map, monitor and evaluate natural and built landscapes. Remotely sensed data can provide large and small scale information at the global, national, regional and local levels. It can also provide important temporal and land change information. Processed remotely sensed data can provide stand alone information and can be integrated with other forms of data, for example, within geographical information systems. Therefore, an understanding of the genesis of the information, analysis techniques, potential applications and interpretation of images and image-based products will be required in many situations for a range of disciplines.

Aims

The aim of this unit it to introduce you to the theoretical concepts underpinning remote sensing of the environment and to give you practical experience and understanding of a range of computer-based digital image processing techniques. In addition, the unit aims to develop your appreciation of the range of applications of remote sensing of the environment.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit you should be able to:
1. Describe and explain a range of theoretical concepts that underpin the technology, analyses and interpretation of selected remotely sensed spatial data.
2. Interpret selected remotely sensed images.
3. Process and analyse selected satellite images using a range of digital image analysis techniques.
4. Describe and discuss a range of applications of remote sensing to the built and natural environments.

Content

• Electromagnetic radiation


• Spectral reflectance from different land surfaces


• Satellite platforms, sensors and data


• Contrast enhancement


• Spatial filters and edge enhancements


• Multispectral transformations


• Image classification


• Classification accuracy assessment


• Introduction to side-imaging radar


• Applications of remote sensing of the environment

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

Hours per week: 4
Lecture: 2 hours per week
Laboratory: 2 hours per week

Students will explore the theoretical concepts that underpin remote sensing of the environment through lectures and develop key skills through practical exercises.

Learning approaches will include (but are not limited to) inquiry- based learning, collaborative active learning and self-directed learning.

Assessment

QUT's Assessment Policy is located at MOPP C/5.1.

Assessment will be both formative and summative. Formative assessment provides you with feedback on your progress to date and summative assessment is where a mark is awarded to you.Formative feedback will be offered throughout the semester.

Assessment name: Quiz
Description: Multiple choice questions on material from the previous week's lecture and learning activities.
Relates to objectives: 1
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Weekly

Assessment name: Portfolio
Description: During the semester you will undertake a range of activities, including processing a satellite image. You will present your results verbally and in writing using a range of formats and modes of presentation. The output from these activities will form your individual portfolio.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 13

Assessment name: Examination (written)
Description: Multiple choice, short answer, graphs and illustrations.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 4
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Exam Period

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Text Book:
NIL

Reference Books:
A selection of books on remote sensing and digital image processing are available in the QUT Gardens Point Library Course Reserve Collection, including:

1. Lillesand T M, Kiefer R W & Chipman J W (2008) Remote sensing and image interpretation. (6th ed). Wiley & Sons, NY, USA [~ 621.3678 9 /5]
2. Campbell, J. B. and Wynne, R. H.(2011) Introduction to Remote Sensing. Guilford Press, New York, USA [621.3678 61/4].
3. Jensen J R (2007) Remote Sensing of the environment: An Earth resource perspective. Pearson Prentice Hall, Uppers Saddle River, NJ [550.28 19/2]
4. Jensen J R (2005) Introductory digital image processing. A remote sensing perspective. (3rd ed) Pearson Prentice Hall, Uppers Saddle River, NJ [621.3678 18/3]
5. Mather, P M (2011). Computer processing of Remotely Sensed Images. An Introduction (3rd ed). John Wiley & Sons, NY, USA [621.3678 54/3]
6. Richards J A & Jia X (2006) Remote sensing digital image analysis. An introduction (4th ed). Springer-Verlag, Berlin Heidelberg. [621.3678 38 /4]
7. Schowengerdt, R A (2007). Remote Sensing. Models and Methods for Image Processing (3rd ed). Academic Press, Burlington, MA, USA. [621.367 165/3]

Journals:
1. International Journal of Remote Sensing
2. Remote Sensing of Environment
3. Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing
4. ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
5. IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing
6. Geocarto International

On-Line:
QUT Blackboard for Unit UDB282

Risk assessment statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.

Students will undertake lectures and tutorials in the traditional classrooms and lecture theatres. As such, there are no extraordinary workplace health and safety issues associated with these components of the unit. You will also be required to undertake practical sessions in the Spatial Sciences Computer Laboratory under the supervision of the lecturer and laboratory supervisor. For the laboratory practical sessions, you will be advised of the requirement to wear closed footwear. The QUT occupational health and safety policies and procedures will apply to these sessions. Should there be a site visit to one or more companies using remotely sensed data, students will follow normal workplace, health and safety procedures.

Health & Safety Inductions
1. General Safety Induction (completed on-line)
2. General Safety Induction (Construction Industry) card -WHITE CARD (this will facilitate students attending construction worksites)

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 01-Aug-2012