Introducing Earth Observation to high school curricula: Agriculture and Natural Resources Management modules

Earth Observation data are becoming more and more widespread, reaching the common public in its everyday life. In the near future, the younger generation will be called upon to use such data, both at a professional and a personal level. Hence, it is imperative that young people become familiar with Earth Observation data and their applications at an early stage.

The SEOS project (Science Education through Earth Observation for High Schools) is a response to this challenge, as it aims to introduce the application of Earth Observation data to high school students, by providing a complete teaching module for selective use of its parts in the classroom, as well as the students on their own.

This study addresses the topics of the use of Earth Observation (EO) in Agriculture and Natural Resource Management. The first topic is addressing EO applications in conjunction with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) on crop identification, monitoring of crop health status and yield estimation, as well as the assessment of field soil quality, and the methods of precision agriculture. The second topic is focusing on EO applications possibilities regarding the monitoring of soil quality, erosion and desertification, the management of forests, water resources and ecosystems in general, as well as urban planning and waste management.

The tutoring methods used to familiarise the pupils with EO applications involve common real-life issues, which stimulate their interest and challenge their critical thinking. Remotely sensed images are utilized for visual representation, extraction of information, and user friendly exercises.