1. Basic information
This syllabus is ratified by the Education Committee of the Faculty of Science 2012. The syllabus is valid from 2012-09-01. The course is at the advanced level (A1N).
2. General information
The course is part of the internet based programme ‘GIS and Earth Observation for Environmental modeling and Natural resource management’ (iGEON). The course is an elective for the double degree: Master of Science in Geographical Information Science and Earth Observation, University of Twente, Faculty ITC, the Netherlands and Master of Science in Geographical Information Science of Lund University, Sweden. The course is also given as a single subject course. The language of instruction is English. The course is fully based on distance learning, with all material distributed over the Internet. It is flexible in the sense that students can study full time (100%), half time (50%), or with a 25% study tempo.
The course is part of the main field of study in Physical Geography and Ecosystems Science at the Faculty of Science. The course is an elective course on advanced level for a Master’s degree in Geographical Information Science, Faculty of Science, Lund University, Sweden.
3. Learning outcomes
The aim of the course is that students, after having successfully completed the course, should have acquired the following knowledge, understanding and skills:
Knowledge and understanding
After the course the student is expected to be able to:
- explain the main characteristics in run-off modelling from micro to macro scales, and for different types of models from empirical to process based,
- thoroughly explain how digital elevation data is gathered with different techniques
- describe how digital elevation data can be generated from raw data,
- synoptically explain how spatial variability affects input and output data (results) in modelling,
- thoroughly explain the spatial aspects in a given hydrological model,
- individually prepare, calibrate and validate a hydrological model, and
- critically discuss results from different models in relation to each other and with an understanding about the model’s construction.
Proficiency and skills
After the course the student is expected to be able to:
- communicate orally and written and in a scientific manor within the field of hydrological modelling
- apply some of the most common methods for data generation for models, e.g. digital elevation data, precipitation data, evapotranspiration and run-off data.
Attitude and ability to appraise
After the course the student is expected to be able to:
- understand and critically judge and discuss scientific primary publications in the field of hydrological modelling and from these be able to summarize a given scientific problem.
4. Course contents
The course consists of the following parts:
- Digital terrain data, methods for data sampling and data generation.
- Model theory, from empirical to process based models.
- Model parameters and functions from a spatial perspective in different resolutions.
The course deals with hydrological modelling in a spatial view. Overall goals are to theoretically and practically provide the students with knowledge about possibilities and problems
related to digital geographical data in modelling hydrology, spatially and temporally. Both the scientific/technical aspects as well as societal values of modelling and modelling results are included in the course. The course is given with both theoretical and practical (computer exercises) parts. Individual projects and training in different ways of presenting methods and data is included. The course is characterized by interdisciplinary work.
5. Teaching and assessment
Teaching consists of lectures, practical and theoretical exercises and seminars. Exercises and seminars are compulsory.
Examination is in the form of a written exam, and through approved individual exercises.
6. Grades
Students are graded for the course according to the following levels: High Pass (distinction), Passed, and Failed.
In order to pass the course the student is required to have passed the exam, all compulsory exercises, and to have participated in all compulsory course elements.
The final grade for the course is determined by the result of the written exam.
7. Entrance qualifications
The following are required for admission to the course: Basic admission requirements of Lund University, and at least 1.5 years full time studies at university level, including iGEON compulsory courses of semester 1 and 2 (35 ECTS).
8. Literature
According to a list established by the department, available at least five weeks before the start of the course.