Description:
This course covers a wide variety of topics from planning data collection activities to incorporation of GPS data into geographic information systems. A significant portion of the course is spent outside learning to use GPS receivers to collect points and tracks and to navigate to specific field locations. The course primarily uses two free software programs - DNRGarmin and AccuGlobe. DNRGarmin is used to transfer data to and from the GPS receivers and to convert the GPS data into a GIS (shapefile) format. AccuGlobe is a desktop GIS and is used to map and display GPS data along with other spatial datasets. (note: for students familiar with ArcMap, this software also is available and can be used in place of AccuGlobe.) The course also includes modules on 1) how to integrate GPS and digital photography to produce GIS maps with hyperlinks to field photographs, and 2) how to "publish" GPS data on Google Earth. The course is well suited for anyone interested in using GPS for recreational and/or mapping applications.

• Extensive hands-on use of Garmin GPSMap76 receivers and demonstrations of a variety of other receivers.
• Extensive hands-on field activities to practice collecting geospatial field data - waypoints and tracks.
• Transferring data between the GPS receiver and a desktop computer. Using several software tools (DNRGarmin, AccuGlobe and/or ArcMap) to manage and display GPS data.
• Processing GPS data to use in desktop geographic information systems. How to "link" digital photographs to GPS locations.
• Information on how to organize and plan effective field data collection projects.