The learning objective of the course is a) the complementation of knowledge on the natural environment by applying the basic knowledge (Physical Geography I, II, Environment & Ecology) acquired in previous semesters and b) the understanding of contemporary methodology in Environmental Geography and preparing students for knowledge application in both the academic and the private sector. In other words, the course aim is to achieve a faceted understanding of modern Environmental Science and research methodology. Specifically, the student learns to use the Global Positioning System (GPS) with modern appliances and positioning softwares (e.g. ArcPad, TurboGPS) including the acquisition of geographical information of sampling points using GPS. Through the botanical and zoological research, the student learns the appropriate sampling and management of botanical and zoological material and the acquisition of important information which is recorded along with the collected material (e.g. coordinates, date, weather, etc.). In addition, the student learns methods in the preservation of the material and the identification of samples. After the successful completion of the course the student has the ability to recognize an environmental problem and to study its effects by sampling in degraded and non-degraded areas, and comparing samples of biological material. Particular emphasis is placed on teaching proper techniques of capturing the spatial dimension of environmental pressure.
Theory
Introduction to applied Environmental Studies and Geography with emphasis on the contemporary environmental research methodology.
Environmental Studies as study field within Physical Geography. Symptoms, causes and geographic dimensions (ecological, socio-economic, political and cultural) and effects of the Environmental - ecological crisis (pollution, climate - global change, ecosystem degradation, depletion of natural resources, biological invasions, anthropogenic effects on the environment). Tackling environmental problems - Modern mitigation measures and technology - Sustainability.
Functioning of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Phytogeographical research with an introduction to plant systematics. Zoogeographical research (with particular emphasis on arthropods) with an introduction to animal systematics.
Practical Exercises Field
1. Acquisition of the geographical position using the Global Positioning System (GPS): theory and operation of GPS devices. Contemporary positioning receivers and software: ArcPad, TurboGPS. Surveying: From field research το mapping. Visualisation of sampling points on the map. Measurement of surface and linear elements. Identification and mapping of natural elements.
2. Phytogeographical research and vegetation sampling: Introduction to plant systematics, field exercise with sampling, identification of plants and generation of a herbarium.
3. Zoogeographical research and sampling (with a special emphasis on arthropods): Introduction to animal systematics, introduction to sampling methods, field exercise with sampling, identification of samples and generating a collection.
