One week: July 13-19, 2008
Ever wonder how GPS systems in cars work? How MapQuest or GoogleMap can spit out driving directions and maps in seconds? Or how satellite maps that federal agencies use to plan relief efforts are produced? Technologies such as Geographical Information System (GIS), Global Positioning Satellite Systems (GPS), and satellite and aerial remote sensing have revolutionized the way our world works. Simple examples such as Google Maps or MapQuest that help us get driving directions from one place to another or having a GPS based navigational system in the car to get around town are some ways GIS and remote sensing technologies have been woven in to our modern life style.
This week-long, hands-on workshop will provide a chance for participants to understand what these technologies are and how they are used to solve social, economic, and environmental problems. Each student will have a workstation and a GPS with specialized software that will be used to learn the principles of GIS and GPS and to demonstrate GPS data collection and GIS data analysis. Participants will have an opportunity to conduct a project as part of the workshop that will demonstrate the problem solving ability of GIS.
A modern treasure hunting game and an individual project are part of the workshop requirements. Students are not required to be advanced computer users, but expected to have a curiosity and real interest in computers and technologies.
The class will be taught by Dr. Suresh Muthukrishnan, Assistant Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences, and Director of GIS and Remote Sensing Center.
Program Dates and Tuition Cost
· The instructional program begins Monday, July 14 at 9:00 a.m., and ends Friday, July 18 at 4:00 p.m.
· Registration is scheduled from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 13
· The program fee is $800.00 including room, board, materials, field trips and activities.
· Meals: Sunday dinner through Saturday breakfast.
Campus Housing and Amenities
· Participants will be housed in Lakeside Housing, one of Furman's residential complexes.
· Summer Scholars Program participants have access to campus amenities such as the James B. Duke Library, tennis courts, jogging trails, fitness trails, swimming pool, the University Center, and campus dining facilities. Bring casual and sports clothing for outdoor recreational activities.
Program Entrance Requirements
Summer Scholars programs are open to students entering the 11th or 12th grades who have strong academic skills and motivation. Rising sophomores may be admitted under special circumstances. Program enrollments are limited and qualified students are accepted on a first-come basis, so early application is recommended. Applications may be obtained from the Enrollment Office, Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Highway, Greenville, SC 29613 (864) 294-3231 or from the Summer Scholars Web site: http://www.furman.edu/summerscholars. Students may apply for one class each week. Once your application is approved, you will receive an admission letter and registration form requesting that you mail in your $150.00 non-refundable deposit. The deposit will guarantee your space in the program(s). If you plan to attend both weeks, will be required to pay a deposit for each class.