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ESM341Sciences2 Unitsintermediate

Introduction To Instrumentation Measurement And Field Methods In Environmental Science

This course introduces the fundamental principles of instrumentation, measurements, and field methods in environmental science. It covers a wide range of topics, including remote sensing, quadrat surveys, pH and electrical conductivity measurements, air sampling techniques, and quality control in environmental investigations. The course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for conducting environmental analyses and research, emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical applications of various instruments and techniques.

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45h
Study Time
13
Weeks
3h
Per Week
basic
Math Level
Course Keywords
InstrumentationEnvironmental ScienceField MethodsMeasurementsSampling

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
➕
Math Level
Basic Math
🔬
Learning Type
Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Instrumentation in Environmental Science

2

Remote Sensing Techniques

3

Quadrat Survey Principles

4

pH and Electrical Conductivity Measurements

5

Air Sampling and Analysis

6

Quality Control in Sampling

7

Electronic Direct Reading Instrumentation

8

Biological Sample Collection

9

Noise and Sound Measurements

10

Meteorological Observations

Total Topics10 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Basic knowledge of environmental science principles

Introductory chemistry and biology courses

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Environmental Scientist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Environmental Monitoring Technician

Apply your skills in this growing field

Environmental Consultant

Apply your skills in this growing field

Research Assistant

Apply your skills in this growing field

Laboratory Technician

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Environmental ConsultingGovernment Regulatory AgenciesResearch InstitutionsWaste ManagementWater Resource Management

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1:

2h

Unit 1: Scope of Instrumentation in Environmental Science and Technology

2 study hours
  • •Define instrumentation and its role in environmental science.
  • •Identify different types of instruments used for field observations and laboratory analysis.
  • •Distinguish between digital and analogue instruments.
Week
2

Module 1:

2h

Unit 2: Instrumentation for Field Observations: Remote Sensing Related Equipments

2 study hours
  • •Describe remote sensing and its techniques for acquiring information about the Earth's surface.
  • •Identify and describe equipment that uses remote sensing techniques, such as spectrometers and GPS.
  • •Explain the process of interaction between incident radiation and targets of interest.
Week
3

Module 1:

2h

Unit 3: Principles of Quadrat Survey

2 study hours
  • •Describe a quadrat and its purpose in ecological studies.
  • •Explain how to construct and use a quadrat for sampling.
  • •Discuss the effects of quadrat shape on sampling results.
Week
4

Module 1:

2h

Unit 4: pH and Electrical Conductivity in Soil and Water Samples

2 study hours
  • •Characterize pH and electrical conductivity (EC) and their significance in environmental studies.
  • •Describe methods for determining pH and EC in soil and water samples.
  • •Explain the protocols and concerns for accurate pH and EC measurements.
Week
5

Module 1:

2h

Unit 5: Introduction to Laboratory Techniques and Instrumentation

2 study hours
  • •Describe the principles and applications of AAS, colorimeter, spectrometer, and chromatography systems.
  • •Compare and contrast the workings of these instruments.
  • •Explain the importance of these techniques in chemical analyses.
Week
6

Module 2:

2h

Unit 1: Instrumentation for Air Sampling and Analyses

2 study hours
  • •Identify different types of instrumentation for air sampling.
  • •Describe methods of air sampling for short-term analysis.
  • •Assess the features of the grab approach to air sampling.
Week
7

Module 2:

2h

Unit 2: Integrated or Long Term Air Sampling

2 study hours
  • •Describe the conditions necessary for adopting an integrated sampling procedure.
  • •Describe some integrated air sampling instruments.
  • •Explain the principle of absorption in air sampling.
Week
8

Module 2:

2h

Unit 3: Sampling as an Instrument for Environmental Investigation

2 study hours
  • •Define sampling and describe its purpose in environmental research.
  • •Outline and describe sources of errors in sampling.
  • •Describe the importance of sample size in ensuring representative results.
Week
9

Module 2:

2h

Unit 4: Quality Control Assurance in Sampling

2 study hours
  • •Identify essential guidelines related to the use of sample containers.
  • •Explain the importance of field activities and record-keeping for quality assurance.
  • •Describe contamination control measures and the use of duplicates and replicates in sampling.
Week
10

Module 3:

2h

Unit 1: Electronic Direct Reading Instrumentation

2 study hours
  • •Describe direct reading instruments and their applications in environmental monitoring.
  • •Explain the operating principles of direct reading instruments.
  • •Discuss the usefulness of various direct reading instruments.
Week
11

Module 3:

2h

Unit 2: Biological Sample Collection: Freshwater

2 study hours
  • •Identify materials required for biological sample collection in freshwater environments.
  • •Describe sampling instruments used for different aspects of biological studies.
  • •Explain the importance of proper preparation and site location in biological sampling.
Week
12

Module 3:

2h

Unit 3: Instrumentation for Noise and Sound Measurements

2 study hours
  • •Describe the components of a sound measuring system.
  • •Describe various sound measuring instruments, such as sound level meters and noise dosimeters.
  • •Explain the principles of sound and noise measurement.
Week
13

Module 3:

2h

Unit 4: Meteorological Variables and their Observations

2 study hours
  • •Describe different types of meteorological stations and their purposes.
  • •Identify climate/weather elements and instruments used for their measurement.
  • •Explain the techniques for measuring meteorological variables, such as radiation, temperature, wind, and humidity.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review the principles and applications of each instrument covered in the course.

2

Practice solving numerical problems related to pH, electrical conductivity, and air sampling calculations.

3

Create concept maps linking different sampling techniques and their appropriate applications.

4

Focus on understanding the sources of error in sampling and how to minimize them.

5

Review the case studies and examples provided in the course material to understand real-world applications.

6

Practice interpreting data from different instruments and drawing conclusions based on the results.

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