NATRS 262 - GIS Tools in the Field

Credits: 6
Focuses on various software and GPS tools to collect, create, edit and maintain attributes and spatial information from the office, to the field, and back using applications like Esri Collector, Survey 123, and Avenza. Covers several different analytical techniques and methods pertaining for field data collection and imagery collection as applied to natural resources.

Enrollment Requirement: NATRS 192 with a grade of 2.5 or higher; and instructor consent.

Course Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this class will be able to:

Perform proficient use of field data collection technology like ESRI Collector, Survey 123, Avenza, and GPS units.
Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each field collection technique.
Generate maps, graphs, and photo displays as part of analysis.
Analyze and process aerial and satellite imagery with computer-based programs.
Demonstrate competency using ArcGIS modules for spatial analysis of field collected data.

Program Outcomes

Attain a job in the Natural Resources field.
Manage Forestland or Resources to attain positive outcomes.
Demonstrate effective written and verbal communications between industry partners and cooperators.

College-wide Outcomes

Critical Thinking - Critical thinking finds expression in all disciplines and everyday life. It is characterized by an ability to reflect upon thinking patterns, including the role of emotions on thoughts, and to rigorously assess the quality of thought through its work products. Critical thinkers routinely evaluate thinking processes and alter them, as necessary, to facilitate an improvement in their thinking and potentially foster certain dispositions or intellectual traits over time.
Responsibility - Responsibility encompasses those behaviors and dispositions necessary for students to be effective members of a community. This outcome is designed to help students recognize the value of a commitment to those responsibilities which will enable them to work successfully individually and with others.
Quantitative and Symbolic Reasoning - Quantitative Reasoning encompasses abilities necessary for a student to become literate in today’s technological world. Quantitative reasoning begins with basic skills and extends to problem solving.
Written Communication - Written Communication encompasses all the abilities necessary for effective expression of thoughts, feelings, and ideas in written form.