Environmental Data Collection and Analysis

Environmental scientists work on complex problems where data from different temporal and spatial scales have to be collected and linked to each other. It is the aim of this course to give the theoretical background of some selected research methods that are relevant for the various disciplines within hydrology, meteorology, soil science, ecology and earth system science and subsequently apply these methods when collecting and analyzing your own data in the field.
Environmental Data Collection and Analysis (EDCA) starts with a general part (EDCA part 1, weeks 1-4) in which all students deal with common statistical techniques of data analysis. These include basic statistics, time series analysis, geostatistics, spectral analysis and error analysis. These topics are considered relevant for all environmental disciplines. During the second, thematic part of the course (EDCA part 2, weeks 4-8) the student will collect field data and analyse those using various techniques depending on the selected theme (Hydrology, Meteorology and Air Quality, Soil and Water Quality or Soils and Landscape). The results of the analysis will be presented in a final presentation.
NOTE that the course covers all 8 weeks of period1 with on-campus work in weeks7 and 8.

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:

• Explain relevant environmental statistical techniques
• Apply selected statistical techniques in addressing environmental problems
• Design and carry out strategies for data collection
• Apply research methods, depending on the selected theme
• Analyse collected spatial and temporal environmental data
• Explain, interpret and present the obtained research results

Mandatory Knowledge:
ZSS06100 Laboratory Safety and ZSS06200 Fieldwork Safety
Assumed Knowledge:

• Basic statistics.
• Expertise in Earth and Environmental Sciences
• Basic programming skills