What This Document Is
This document details the methodological approach for an advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) project focused on ecological research within Costa Rica’s national parks. It outlines the planning and preparation undertaken by a research team from Western Washington University’s Huxley College during a summer field study. The core of the document centers on the practical considerations of applying GIS techniques to real-world biodiversity analysis. It’s a deep dive into the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind a specific research implementation, rather than a theoretical overview of GIS principles.
Why This Document Matters
Students enrolled in advanced GIS courses, particularly those with an interest in environmental science, conservation, or ecological modeling, will find this resource invaluable. It’s especially relevant for anyone undertaking a similar research project involving spatial data collection and analysis in a complex environment. Professionals working in resource management, wildlife biology, or environmental consulting could also benefit from understanding the challenges and solutions presented within. This material is most useful during the project planning and methodology phases of a GIS-based research endeavor.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This document focuses specifically on *one* research project’s methodology. It does not provide a comprehensive guide to all GIS methods, nor does it offer step-by-step tutorials for specific software packages. It also doesn’t include the actual research findings or data analysis results – those are presented separately. The document details the process of *acquiring* data, but doesn’t provide the datasets themselves. It’s a record of decisions made and challenges faced, not a universal blueprint.
What This Document Provides
* An overview of the study areas: Corcovado and Carara National Parks in Costa Rica.
* Details regarding the types of geospatial data utilized, including both raster and vector layers.
* Discussion of data sourcing strategies and challenges related to international data acquisition.
* Information on initial data pre-processing steps, including coordinate system considerations.
* Context surrounding the logistical aspects of field data collection using GPS technology.
* Insights into the collaborative nature of research, leveraging existing expertise and networks.
