NRES 827: Introduction to the Global Positioning System (GPS)

NRES 827: Introduction to the Global Positioning System (GPS)

Instructor(s): Getachew Demisse

Number of Credit Hours: 2

Cross-listings: GEOG 427, NRES 427, NRES 827

Prerequisites: Junior standing. Familiarity with mapping and GIS recommended.

Description: Integrated lectures, lab exercises and field experience provide an understanding of GPS technology and applications. Students will learn to collect, correct and use GPS data in a geographic information system (GIS) environment. The main goal of this course is to introduce the concepts and required skills on satellite based referencing with a focus on Global Positioning System (GPS).

Learning Outcomes/Course Objectives

  1. Understand the required concepts and skills for using GPS in natural resources and agriculture.
  2. Understand the principles of satellite-based positioning systems.
  3. Identify and describe available satellite-based positioning technologies.
  4. Understand and develop required skills for GPS signals, codes and biases.
  5. Describe the practical applications of GPS and its future modernization.
  6. Explain challenges in determining heights with GPS and how the challenges can be managed.
  7. Understand some of the opportunities afforded by the coming GNSS systems.
  8. Understand map: projections, coordinate systems, datums, geoids, and ellipsoids and know how to properly use them with GNSS.
  9. Use GPS data with GIS and know how positional data is used and stored in the GIS.
  10. Acquire precise GPS data and be able to import/export it to other applications as needed.
  11. Evaluate and recommend proper use of GPS for acquiring data in different geospatial business applications.