The course is done online by the Faculty of Logistics and Crisis Management.
Lecturer
RNDr. Jakub Trojan, MSc, Ph.D.
Credits
6 ECTS
Level of study
Bachelor´s, Master´s and Ph.D.
Required minimum knowledge
Operate a PC at a normal user level. All SW used will be provided for free.
Annotation
This summer school course introduces Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for applied crisis management with a strong link to environmental studies and real case studies.
Participants will work with open-source GIS tools (e.g., QGIS/GRASS) and selected web-based GIS (incl. the work with OpenStreetMap).
Objectives
The course aims to build core GIS skills for environmental practice and to connect GIS theory with practical applications in crisis-management contexts. It emphasizes learning through modern technologies, hands-on exercises, and case-based tasks.
Outcomes
Participants will understand key GIS principles and functions in the context of crisis management, including relevant technologies, standards, and data integration. Participants will be able to collect/manage geographic data, run spatial analyses and basic modelling for risk/impact assessment, and produce thematic maps and visual outputs suitable for crisis-related decision support. Participants will also be able to interpret results and communicate them, while recognizing ethical, legal, and security aspects of GIS use in crisis management.
Content and Structure
Introduction to GIS; fundamentals and core principles. Proprietary GIS environment (example of ArcGIS Pro) and GUI; open-source GIS environments (QGIS, GRASS) and their GUI. Coordinate reference systems and transformations (S-JTSK, S-42, ETRS, WGS84); projections and transformations. Map design and layout: thematic map creation (basic and advanced). Geographic data handling: analysis and transformation; vector and raster data analysis. Environmental/crisis-oriented spatial operations (e.g., buffers, clip, intersections) and task-focused case studies.
The course is designed as a balanced mix of lectures and practical tutorials, reflecting a “learn-then-do” approach. Learning activities are primarily practice exercises and individual student work (portfolio-oriented). A humanitarian mapathon can be included as part of the practical learning experience.
Assessment
The assessment follows the ECTS credit system and consists of continuous evaluation and a final case study presentationf. Students are assessed based on their participation in tutorials, engagement in discussions, and completion of group or individual assignments related to qualitative risk analysis. A key component is the development and presentation of a case study, where students apply risk management methods to real-world scenarios. The final grade is determined by the quality of analysis, problem-solving approach, and practical applicability of proposed solutions. Grading is based on participation, assignments, and the successful presentation of the case study, in accordance with the ECTS framework.
Fee covers
online course participation (via MS Teams) and access to needed SW
Fees and deadlines
- Early Bird: EUR 399; Deadline: 15 May 2025
- Regular: EUR 449; Deadline: 31 JULY 2025
