The first part introduces the theoretical and methodological underpinnings of the discipline. Measurement and representation of the Earth, spatial data, data model, geographic projections, remote sensing methods and data management are presented and critically discussed.
The second part illustrates applications of the major methods of measurement, remote sensing, projections, cartographic representation and visualization.
The literature ranges from a critical introduction to the discipline, to spatial analysis handbooks, completed by journal articles and essays. Within this literature, the following titles are noteworthy.
B. Markoski (ed.), 2018, Basic Principles of Topography . Berlin: Springer.
D. O’Sullivan & D. Unwin (eds), 2010, Geographic Information Analysis. John Wiley & Sons.
K. Keranen & R. Kolvoord, 2013, Making Spatial Decisions Using GIS and Remote Sensing: A Workbook. Redlands, California: ESRI Press.
Learning Objectives
Knowledge: the course provides students with the basic notions regarding the theoretical and methodological underpinnings of topography.
Competences: the course prepares students to the measurement and representation of the Earth, as well as the collection and management of geographical data.
Skills: measurement and representation, remote sensing, cartography.
Prerequisites
A basic knowledge of geography is expected.
Teaching Methods
The first part of the course is constituted of front lectures, aided by audio-visual material, and introduces the main theoretical and methodological aspects of the discipline. In its second part, the course develops practical applications of topography.
Further information
Class attendance is mandatory. Personalized programs are permitted only under exceptional circumstances.
Type of Assessment
Student evaluation is based on a written exam on the material covered in the first and second parts of the course.
Course program
The first part of the course is constituted by an introduction to topography, placed in the context of modern techniques of remote sensing and computer data management. Collection, management, and update of data are placed in relationship to the Earth representation, its projection on the dimensional plane, and the data model. The course is completed with elements of computer cartography, with particular attention to human geography and territorial phenomena.
The second part of the course is devoted to hands-on learning of the main techniques of surveying and representation, the main geographic projections and the methods of cartographic representation and visualization