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Education/Research
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Appropriate education and training in Remote Sensing for the Asia/Pacific region
G.J.E. Hill, and S.R. Phinn
Department of Geographical Sciences
The University of Queensland
St Lucia Qld 4072
G.D. Kelly
Department of Lands
PO Box 40
Woolloongabba Qld 4102
Abstract
The disciplines of Remote Sensing has experienced rapid growth over the past decade. For the Asia/Pacific region, utilization of the technology ranges from heavy involvement in digital image processing and new generation sensor systems to very limited usage of any form of Remote Sensing, even aerial photography. Education and training programmes, therefore, need to be sensitive to the current status of Remote Sensing in individual countries. In particular emphasis should be given to applications where Remote Sensing is capable of making an important contribution to solving current problems. There is little point in educating personnel from the region in the use of inappropriate technology for applications of marginal interest.
Introduction
The roots of the discipline of Remote Sensing may be traced back to the invention of the camera in the late 1800s. Through the American Civil War and First World war the practical application of this new technology for earth reconnaissance was established, albeit for military purposes, and this eventually led to a dramatic increase in the use of Remote Sensing for civilian purposes (e.g. Colwell 1983). Aerial photography ushered in a new era of earth resource mapping and monitoring. With the advent of sophisticated scanner systems and satellite based platforms the term Remote Sensing became fashionable in the 1970s. While the tools of trade continue to develop, with new imaging systems and methods of analysis, the scope and purpose of applied Remote Sensing remains relatively unchanged. However, to-day's users of remotely sensed data are faced with a range of options that appear to increase
Knowledge/training required to participate in the technology as a whole has expanded greatly (e.g. Parry 1986).
These factors pose special problems for developing countries where the potential benefits of Remote Sensing are high but implementation is often difficult (e.g. Drury, 1990)
Under circumstances such as these, where resources are limited and information needs are high, it becomes critical for informed choices to be made regarding the implementation of Remote Sensing technology. Without a logical framework there is little likelihood that Remote Sensing will become an operational tool under the control of in-country, applied scientists. Decision of vital importance relate to :
- choice of suitable imagery;
- selection of projects; and
- training of personnel.
Making the right decisions regarding each of these factors should be guided by the current status of, and prospects for, Remote Sensing in the country involved. It will also involve a realistic assessment of the usefulness of the various forms of remotely sensed data in the local environment.
The aim of the current paper is to expand on the three elements listed above by drawing on the experience of the authors in implementing Remote Sensing technology in a range of countries from the south pacific region. Particular emphasis will be given to some of the difficulties involved in using satellite imagery in this part of the world and role of education and training in overcoming these.
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