Course Information
In this course we use QGIS, an open-source programme, to address questions in ecology, learning how species, habitats and landscapes can be described, analysed, and graphically represented. Whether identifying biodiversity hotspots, delineating the most inclusive protected area network, understanding how species interact with features of the environment, or measuring the extent of habitat loss, conservationists need to understand how organisms are distributed across landscapes and are impacted at different spatial scales. GIS is a powerful computing tool that can practically help you - making it an invaluable skill to guide conservation management decisions.
Who is it for?
Suitable for beginners, or those who wish to refresh their knowledge, this introductory course progresses at a pace to ensure you get to grips with the basic use of QGIS and feel successful. Although the content is taught within the framework of environmental conservation, the basic principles mean this is suitable to anyone considering the use of GIS in business or science.
No prior knowledge of GIS is required, but participants should be comfortable working with computers, managing files and installing software. Not essential to bring a laptop but advantageous.
"Fantastic course that goes beyond ‘simple maps’, it covers analysis and techniques essential for conservation professionals". GIS course participant.
What is the course content?
Predominantly computer based, we work both individually and as a group to progress through a series of lectures and practical workshops to slowly build upon your skill set. You will cover the following:
- How GIS can be used as an analytical tool to represent real-world spatial relationships.
- Data to be entered into a GIS can be derived from traditional field work, but context and depth can be added through remotely sensed data, or accessing freely available data from research institutes and citizen science. Whatever the source, GIS data can be manipulated to provide in-depth understanding of the interactions between organisms and different elements of their environments which works as an excellent aid in supporting conservation planning.
- GIS can also allow us to derive information (e.g. distance between features, estimate sea floor depth), that can be exported for use in standard statistical analysis and modelling techniques.
- Advances in GIS and satellite imagery allow research to be conducted very efficiently and cheaply, often over previously unachievable scales, and in areas inaccessible by conventional methods.
- Given the power of GIS to underpin conservation action, it is essential that practitioners understand the ways in which GIS can support the development of conservation solutions, the opportunities it provides as well as its limitations.
Where will the course be run?
The course will be based at the Durrell Conservation Academy at Durrell’s headquarters in Jersey. Teaching will be delivered by Durrell’s own conservation specialists and directed by Dr Helen Gath, Conservation Training Officer, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust.
How much will it cost?
The course fee is £575. This includes:
- All course materials
- Unlimited entry to Jersey Zoo during the course
- Certificate of attendance
Optional full board accommodation is available in our on-site hostel for £52.50 per person per night (2020). Optional lunches are available for non-residents at £8 per person per day.
Download the leaflet to find out more.
To book a place, please complete the application form and email to academy@durrell.org
For information please call +44 (0)1534 860037.