Implementing a Modern E-Learning Strategy in an Interdisciplinary Environment—Empowering UNESCO Stakeholders to Use Earth Observation

Tobias Matusch,Lisa Dannwolf,Anne Schneibel,Alexander Siegmund

doi:10.3390/geosciences8120432

Tobias Matusch, Lisa Dannwolf + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences8120432

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Abstract

The Copernicus Program and the fleet of available Earth observation satellites provide valuable services in sectors such as agriculture, forestry, urban monitoring, and heritage management. However, drawbacks such as knowledge gaps by the user, limited technical and financial facilities or the lack of ready-to-use data, result in insufficient exploitation of these opportunities by heritage site managers and other relevant stakeholders. Based on an initial assessment of current threats, existing limitations and potential applications, we developed the e-learning module Space2Place. Through the use of the learning module, stakeholders get a substantial introduction into Earth observation and knowledge barriers that may exist are removed. For this purpose, we refined an existing e-learning platform, which was developed in close relation to an online remote sensing application and adapted to the needs of UNESCO site stakeholders. One of the main features is the personalization of the learning modules content depending on the abilities or interests of the user. The platform offers information with different levels of difficulty and adaptable learning paths. A graduation certificate and practical exercises in an online remote sensing application increase the specific added value for UNESCO site manager. By using the associated remote sensing application and its link to Space2Place, heritage site managers also improve their knowledge on image processing by working with original satellite imagery. Additional advantages of using the platform will be enhanced through the introduction of new learning modules, translation into other languages and accompanying scientific research.

Highlights

Education and learning approaches are changing dynamically in the course of time
By using the associated remote sensing application and its link to Space2Place, heritage site managers improve their knowledge on image processing by working with original satellite imagery
Besides the challenges of a continuously changing educational landscape, e.g., with mobile learning and electronical learning application, new approaches and technical opportunities offer a variety of new options for educational experts, teachers, and providers of education [2]

Summary

Introduction

Education and learning approaches are changing dynamically in the course of time. Besides the challenges of a continuously changing educational landscape, e.g., with mobile learning and electronical learning application (hereafter e-learning), new approaches and technical opportunities offer a variety of new options for educational experts, teachers, and providers of education [2]. E-learning raised considerably in the past few years in quantity and quality [3]. Massive open online courses (MOOCs), often even free of charge, are accessible for an increasing global education market. Free and open-source learning platforms for different topics were established during the past years, altering academic structures and revenue models of the educational sector [7]. The large variety of available platforms and courses creates an offer, which might appear inscrutable for the respective learner

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