Introduction to GIS for Geotechnical Practitioners

This online course is intended to provide geotechnical engineers and engineering geologists with an introduction to using geographical information systems (GIS). The course will cover:

• An introduction to GIS concepts;
• importing common GIS data formats including web services;
• adding, editing, symbolising and labelling data;
• spatial analysis through the use of filters and queries
• visualising landscapes in 3D
• making maps to use in reports
• making topographic cross-sections
• performing simple geoprocessing tasks such as creating slope angle maps

The coursework will be interspersed with examples of other projects and opportunities for group discussion. The use of peripheral devices to capture field data such as GPS units, regular cameras, smart-phones and tablets will be covered. Methods for working with important digital imagery such as historic aerial photos (stereo pairs), satellite imagery and scanned plans will also be outlined. Digital datasets, AS1726 compatible symbol sets and course notes will be provided for download.

Online Course

The course will be conducted via Microsoft Teams and will utilise the free open source software QGIS. Participants will be required to install QGIS on their own computer and will need to have access to MS Teams. Full instructions for hardware requirements and setting up software will be provided before the course. Participants will need a modern mid-range computer with a current operating system installed, preferably two monitors, a webcam and headset. A reliable internet connection with sufficient bandwidth for video conferencing is essential.

About the course presenter

Colin Mazengarb, based in Tasmania, has practised in the fields of regional-geological mapping and engineering-geology in New Zealand, Australia and the USA throughout his long career. He is an advanced user of various geographical information systems (GIS) software and has taught this course since 2016.

Registration

Members are required to log in to access the AGS member price, which is not transferable. More information about logging in to this website can be found here.

Payment via credit card is available and processed by Stripe. The Australian Geomechanics Society will not store or have access to your credit card information and Stripe adhere to strict security and PCI compliance for processing online transactions.

Online Session – 26 November 2024

Online Session – 12 December 2024