University of Applied Sciences

Master of Science Programme

Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Module Descriptions

Examination Regulation Part B,

17.02.2016
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Descriptions

1. Program Objectives ................................................................................................................... 3

2. Schedule of Modules ................................................................................................................. 4
3. Module Descriptions .................................................................................................................. 5
Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing ............................................................................................ 5
Geographical Information Systems .................................................................................................. 9
Geostatistics and Surface Modeling ............................................................................................... 12
Scientific Skills, Intercultural, Language and Media Competencies ............................................... 15
Advanced Topics in Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing......................................................... 18
Customization, Internet GIS, Visualisation ..................................................................................... 21
Geodata: Capture, Sources and Standards ................................................................................... 23
Planning, Organisation and Management ...................................................................................... 26
Remote Sensing Studios (Elective) ................................................................................................ 28
GIS Studios (Elective) .................................................................................................................... 30
Radar Remote Sensing (Elective) .................................................................................................. 32
GIS Programming (Elective) ........................................................................................................... 34
Research Seminar .......................................................................................................................... 36
Master Thesis ................................................................................................................................. 39
4. Technical Journals ................................................................................................................... 40
5. Additional Courses and Offers ................................................................................................. 40

-2-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

1. Program Objectives

The program aims to prepare for international management and development tasks in Photogrammetry
and Geoinformatics. In particular, the social and ethical responsibility of students should be developed
further by giving the students the opportunity to acquire the necessary key skills. Especially for
sustainable development and careful management of the resources of a country an indispensable
prerequisite is Geoinformation. It is both the technical, management related, as well as economic and
ergonomic basic skills which are aimed to be improved.

The intensive involvement of project work and case studies should develop on one hand the ability of
self-organization. On the other hand, it should also encourage the ability to organize complex spatial
projects and the organizations involved in processes to solve interdisciplinary problems in teams.

Special attention is given to the international and intercultural composition of the program participants,
who have the opportunity to insert skills already acquired in their home countries in various disciplines
and their previous professional experience into the course.

The following tables shows the general objectives and the competences linked to each of the modules.

Competence Modules
General objectives - knowledge - knowledge
- professional skills - professional skills
- competences - competences
− management of complex GIS
Awareness of the relevance
spatial relationships GCS
of geodata for decision
− basic competence in general PRS
processes on different levels
management POM
GIS
− basic technical competences
PRS
− management of complex
Scientific based knowledge of GSM
spatial relationships
basic theories and models ATP
− solving of interdisciplinary
GCS
problems
CIV
GIS
− case studies
Ability to implement the PRS
− project work
knowledge in practice SLM
− excursions
POM/GSS/RSS
Resulting from the
Preparation for an composition of the group with
international and intercultural − learning and working in an different professional,
environment in an increasing international group national and cultural
globalized working − team work background. It is deepened
environment by a number of case studies
in different modules.
− actual directions of research
ATP
− Scientific Writing, Proposal
CIV
Preparation for further and Thesis presentation
Electives
academic education − Seminars
RSE
− scientific presentation Thesis

-3-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

2. Schedule of Modules

-4-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

3. Module Descriptions

Module Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

Module code: PRS

Semester: PG 1

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Eberhard Gülch

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Gülch / Prof. Dr. Hahn / Braun

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Lectures and Assignments: The central issues of Photogrammetry and
Teaching methods, Remote Sensing are presented in lectures. The lectures are accompanied
SWS/hours per week: by assignments with the aim to deepen the fundamental understanding of
the mathematical principles, in particular, of Photogrammetry. The
assignments, e.g., on spatial transformations, projection, orientation, and
3D restitution are based on MATLAB and are supported by tutorials or on
up-to date Trimble Inpho Software. Knowledge of pre-processing and
image classification in Remote Sensing can be deepened with the software
ERMapper, Erdas Imagine and the software package for interactive self-
directed learning provided with the text book by Mather.
Photogrammetric Practice as training sessions: They are part of a two
weeks lasting project work which is organised in group centred compact
short lectures in the photogrammetric laboratory with the intention of
working directly with a photogrammetric production system and prepare the
students for working with the system without assistance. 6 SWS
lecture: 75 h
Workload: lab exercises: 15 h
practice/workshop: 40 h
self-study: 140 h (including 30 h for assignments)
total: 270 h
Credit points: 9

Recommended
MATLAB
prerequisite subjects:
Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing:
Expected learning On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
outcomes: • Describe the theoretical principles underpinning the use of
photogrammetric and remote sensing sensors
• Select and justify appropriate systems and techniques, including the
fusion of data from multiple sources for the provision of
photogrammetric and remote sensing data sets
• Advise on collection, processing, deliverables and management of
photogrammetric and remote sensing data
• Differentiate between the sources of error in photogrammetric and
remote sensing technologies.
• Apply and judge basic low-level image processing techniques
• Translate complex photogrammetric and remote sensing problems into
essential components and identify appropriate solutions
• Source and access current research and best practice relating to
photogrammetric and remote sensing systems and techniques

-5-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

Photogrammetric Practice:
On Completion of this module part, the learner will be able to
• Understand the various photogrammetric data processing technologies.
• Select an appropriate photogrammetric data collection technology to
suit a particular application.
• Collect reliable photogrammetric data.
• Integrate processing options and deliverables to develop innovative
solutions for a number of real-world scenarios.
• Work effectively in a team situation.
• Prepare and present professional reports and presentations.

1. Sensors of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

Content: 1a) Photogrammetric cameras systems, aerial and space photography.
The metric camera (lens distortion, calibrated focal length, data of
Interior Orientation)
1b) Remote Sensing sensors, optical sensors, Laser scanner, Radar
1c) Scanning principles
1d) Geometry: pointing principles, along-track, cross-track, flexible
pointing
1e) General characteristics of remote sensing instruments, revisit time,
spatial, spectral and temporal resolution, number of spectral bands
1f) Laser Scanning principles, pulsed laser, first and last pulse, imaging
laser
1g) Radar, SAR, INSAR, basic processing principles

2. Photogrammetry
2a) Introduction and brief overview on the historical evolution of
photogrammetry with an emphasis on the last 10 years
2b) Photogrammetric project planning (photo scale selection, camera
types, accuracy in planimetry and height, model area, ground
control, auxiliary data)
2c) The image-object relation as the basis of analytical solutions in
photogrammetry
2d) Basic orientation procedures
Exterior Orientation of a single image
Relative and absolute orientation of photo pairs
Aerial triangulation of image blocks, block adjustment
2e) Photogrammetric procedures for DEM and GIS data acquisition
2f) Orthophotos and ortho-mosaicing: basics, geometric radiometric
adjustment, typical end product

3. Remote Sensing
3a) Basic Principles of Remote Sensing
3b) Definitions, Overall Remote Sensing process
3c) Electromagnetic radiation, electromagnetic spectrum, Energy
sources and sensing
3d) Interaction of electromagnetic radiation with the atmosphere and
with Earth-surface material
3e) Satellite images and visualization
3f) Pre-processing of remotely-sensed data, Removal of data errors
3g) Registration and geometric correction.
3h) Atmospheric correction, Sensor calibration
3i) Classification
3j) Concept of supervised and unsupervised classification

-6-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

3k) Scatter plot and decision making
3l) Supervised classification, Parallelepiped, K-means, Maximum
likelihood
3m) Unsupervised classification, K-means clustering, ISODATA
algorithm

4. Photogrammetric Practice - Photogrammetric project work and training.

Photogrammetric data can be collected using a variety of technologies.
These data are subject to detailed processing flow-lines before deliverables
are produced. Frequently, photogrammetric data are integrated with data
from other sources and significant issues with respect to data compatibility
need to be addressed so that reliable deliverables are produced. This
intensive module is designed to integrate the knowledge acquired in Parts
1 and 2 of this module by applying the knowledge in an integrated project
that simulates a real-world requirement. Learners work in teams from a
project brief that is designed with specific technical requirements and
represents a cutting-edge application. Solutions are learner-driven with
academic staff acting as learning facilitators. A key element of the module
is the necessity for cognitive flexibility and novelty in the development of
solutions. In addition to the required technical skills, the learner will develop
advanced problem-solving skills, team-working skills, and written and oral
presentation skills.

Detailed contents:
4a) Photogrammetric data processing, key modules and their relations,
application areas.
4b) Digital automatic aerial triangulation: preparation, digital image
matching procedures, GPS/INS data, analysis.
4c) Digital Photogrammetric Stereo Workstation: hardware, viewing
system, measurement system, feature extraction: vector information,
break-lines for automatic digital terrain model extraction, connection
to CAD systems
4d) Automatic generation of terrain models: image matching procedures,
analysis
4e) Airborne LIDAR data: Filtering and classification of data, editing and
verification
4f) Semi-automatic building extraction from imagery and point clouds:
matching procedures, measurement of simple and complex building
structures and their analysis
4g) Orthophoto production and ortho-mosaicing: handling of image
blocks, geometric radiometric adjustment and tools, examining
typical problems in different data sets
66 % written examination
Study assessment and 22 % Professional individual presentation: Detailing the key elements of the
Examination: placement and the learning outcomes achieved.
12 % Final student report: Reviewing the learning outcomes achieved
through reflection (80% group-based, 20% individual-based)
A prerequisite for admission to the written examination is the acceptance of
the specified assignments.
A wide range of multi-media materials help to enrich the learning
Forms of media: experience, from paper based resources to state-of-the-art computer
mediated learning and communication applications.
Photogrammetry
Literature: Chris McGlone with Edward Mikhail and James Bethel: Manual of
Photogrammetry (5th Edition), American Society for

-7-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), Bethesda, USA,
2004.
Kraus, K.: Photogrammetry, Volume 1, Fundamentals and standard
processes, Dümmler Verlag, 1990.
Kraus, K.: Photogrammetry, Volume 2, Advanced methods and
applications, Dümmler Verlag, 1997.
Schenk, T.: Digital Photogrammetry, Volume 1, Background,
fundamentals, automatic orientation procedures, TerraScience,
1999.
Wolf, P., Dewitt, B.: Elements of Photogrammetry with Applications in GIS.
Mc Graw Hill, 3rd edition, 2000.

Remote Sensing
Mather, P.M. and Koch, M. (2011): Computer Processing of Remotely-
Sensed Images: An Introduction. Fourth Edition, Wiley-Blackwell,
504 pp.
Sabins, F. (1997): Remote sensing: principles and interpretation, third
edition, W.H. Freemann company, New York.
Lillesand, T.M., Kiefer, R.W., and Chipman, J.W. (2004): Remote Sensing
and Image Interpretation, John Wiley & Sons, New Yor, fifth edition
Tempfli, K., Kerle, N., Huurneman, G.C. and Janssen, L.L.F. (eds., 2009):
Principles of Remote Sensing - An introductory textbook, ITC
Educational Textbook Series, fourth edition.
www.itc.nl/library/papers_2009/general/PrinciplesRemoteSensing.pdf

Further sources
http://www.grss-ieee.org/recent-books-in-geoscience-and-remote sensing/
For the project work and training:
Manuals and Tutorials for INPHO's Photogrammetric Workstation (SW
and HW) with MATCH-AT, MATCH-T DSM, OrthoMaster,
OrthoVista, inJECT, SCOP++, DTMaster, Building Generator
Remote Sensing Tutorials:
www.nasa.gov
http://www.ccrs.nrcan.gc.ca/www.hawai.edu
http://speclib.jpl.nasa.gov/
ERMapper, ErdasImagine Tutorials (Geocoding and classification of aerial
and satellite data)
eCognition Tutorials (Object based image classification)

Hand-outs:
Manuscript or PDFs from PowerPoint of lectures
Exercise notes.
For the project work and training:
Software: INPHO's Photogrammetric Workstation (SW and HW) with MATCH-AT,
MATCH-T DSM, OrthoMaster, OrthoVista, inJECT, SCOP++,
DTMaster and Building Generator
ERMapper, Erdas Imagine (Geocoding and classification of aerial and
satellite data)
eCognition (Object based image classification)

-8-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geographical Information Systems

Module code: GIS

Semester: PG 1

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Schröder

Lecturer: Singh, Prof. Dr. Schröder

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Each topic is introduced by a lecture which seeks to identify the main
Teaching methods, issues in order to convey an understanding of the relative importance of
SWS/hours per week: different issues in GIS applications. The module is taught in a student
centred manner; case studies and examples of best practice are used to
stimulate class discussions and group sessions. It is expected that for
standard issues like database handling or using SQL, the student uses
the recommended online tutorials (CAL). (4SWS)
The theoretical part of the lectures is supported by hands-on lab
exercises; the students have to work out a number of group assignments
including a poster presentation.
(2 SWS)
The GIS part is rounded off by two weeks’ intensive project work. Each
student has to work on at least two projects, which he or she can select
from a catalogue of topics according to his or her preferences and
background. (2 SWS)
lecture: 60 h
Workload: lab exercises: 30 h
practice/workshop: 40 h
self-study: 140 h (including 60 h for assignments and project
presentation)
total: 270 h
Credit points: 9

Recommended
Basic knowledge of database systems and module GIS
prerequisite knowledge:
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Expected learning • discuss the difference of relational and object-relational database
outcomes: systems and their impact to spatial data modelling.
• synthesize and implement data models combining spatial and
non-spatial data tasks with respect to different application
domains on the conceptual, logical, and physical level.
• analyze spatial and non-spatial data using SQL.
• discuss different geodetic reference systems and their
transformation/conversion with respect to their relevance to GIS,
Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry.
• apply and evaluate the results of different
transformations/conversions
• explain the fundamental concepts of GIS (raster vs. vector
representation, layers and objects, dimensions, topology,
classification of GIS)
• apply workflows for secondary data acquisition and data analysis
in order to receive consistent spatial data.

-9-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geographical Information Systems

• design and arrange complex analysis workflow for spatial data
for solving real world problems.
• apply cartographic grammar to present analysis results e.g. on
thematic maps
Part 1: Databases and spatial databases
Content: • Relational and object-relational database systems
• High-level conceptual data models (Entity-Relationship model
and UML).
• The Structured Query Language (SQL) for non-spatial and
spatial data.
• Access methods for spatial access methods and spatial indexing.
Part 2: Spatial Referencing
• Spatial Reference Systems, Geodetic Datums and Datum
Transformations
• Map Projection
Part 3: GIS
• Review of GIS fundamentals
• Raster data within a vector GIS
• Secondary data acquisition for GIS (image geo-referencing, on-
screen digitizing and CAD data)
• Spatial analysis of vector and raster data
• Linear referencing and dynamic segmentation
• Thematic mapping and output

66 % written examination
Study assessment and
12 % presentation of project work including its defence
Examination:
22 % assignments
A wide range of multi-media materials help to enrich the learning
Forms of media: experience, from paper based resources to state-of-the-art computer
mediated learning and communication applications.

Literature: Thomas Connolly and Carolyn Begg: Database Systems: A Practical

Approach to Design, Implementation, and Management. Pearson, 6th
Edition, 2014.
Philippe Rigaux, Michel Scholl, Agnès Voisard: Spatial Databases with
Application to GIS. Academic Press, 2002.
Wolfgang Torge, Jürgen Müller: Geodesy. Walter de Gruyter, 2012.
Burrough, McDonnell, Lloyd: Principles of Geographical Information
Systems. Oxford University Press, 2015.
Longley, Goodchild, Maguire, Rhind: Geographic Information Science
and Systems. John Wiley, New York, 2015 (selected chapters)
Krygier, J. and Wood, D.: Making Maps: A Visual Guide to Map Design
for GIS. The Guilford Press; Second Edition, 2011
Wilpen L. Gorr and Kristen S. Kurland: GIS Tutorial 1: Basic Workbook,
ESRI Press, 2013
David W. Allen: GIS Tutorial 2: Spatial Analysis Workbook, ESRI Press,
2013
David W. Allen and Jeffery M. Coffey: GIS Tutorial 3: Advanced
Workbook, ESRI Press 2013

Divers GIS links, e.g.

- 10 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geographical Information Systems

Richard K. Burkard et al: Geodesy for the Layman. NOAA.
http://www.ngs.noaa.gov/PUBS_LIB/Geodesy4Layman/toc.htm
Huismann, de By: Principles of Geographic Information Systems.
http://www.itc.nl/library/papers_2009/general/PrinciplesGIS.pdf
http://www.opengis.org/techno/abstract.htm, e.g. Topic 2 - Spatial
Reference Systems, Topic 8 - Relations Between Features

Course material
Recommended online tutorials for MS-Access:
• http://www.dealing-with-data.net/index.html
• http://www.fgcu.edu/Support/access2013.html
• https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Access-2013-training-courses-
videos-and-tutorials-a4bd10ea-d5f4-40c5-8b37-d254561f8bce?ui=en-
US&rs=en-US&ad=US

Recommended online tutorials for SQL:

• http://sqlcourse.com
• http://www.w3schools.com/sql/default.asp

Microsoft Access/Oracle/PostgreSQL
Software:
ArcGIS ESRI/QGIS

-11-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geostatistics and Surface Modeling

Module code: GSM

Semester: PG 1

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Rawiel

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Rawiel/ Prof. Dr. Lehmkühler

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

The teaching approach of this mathematics-based module is a mix of

Teaching methods, lectures (2SWS), tutorials and computer assisted exercises (2SWS). As
SWS/hours per week:
a programming tool MATLAB will be used. In a number of assignments,
the routines developed during contact hours are applied to typical use
cases.

In addition, the commercial software package SCOP/Trimble will be

used. This part conducted with a high amount of self-directed learning
and exploration.
lecture: 30 h
lab exercises: 30 h
Workload:
self-study 120 h (including 24 h for assignments)
total: 180 h
Credit points: 6
Recommended
prerequisite Basic mathematical principles of Analysis, Matrix Algebra
knowledge:
The module aims at broadening the knowledge of the students in the
Expected learning field of Geostatistics and Surface Modelling together with strengthening
outcomes: their mathematical competence to analyze data and generate a variety
of models, in particular, surface models to enable a better understanding
for spatially distributed data.

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

• Apply the essential mathematical representations for scenes with
points and surfaces and corresponding geometrical observations.
• List the properties of the most important kinds of linear and
linearized models used for adjustment and hypothesis testing
applied to observational data.
• List the properties of the most important interpolation methods.
• Select corresponding models and data to be recorded in typical
application fields of Photogrammetry and Data Acquisition for
Geoinformatics.
• Analyze spatial correlations of different sets of data
• Setup aggregations of given software components using a
universal mathematical problem handler (like MATLAB) to achieve
evaluation or research tasks with limited but reasonable effort.
• Analyze the theoretical background of commercial software
solutions in Photogrammetry and Data Acquisition for
Geoinformatics and Prepare practical use of them.
First part: Statistical Background
Content: • Matrix algebra and analysis
- 12 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geostatistics and Surface Modeling

• Statistical concepts and definitions
• Uncertain quantities
• The concept of a random variable
• The m-dimensional random vector
• Common density functions
• Propagation of Variances and Covariance
• Adjustment theory
• The weighted least squares method
• Robust estimation
• Systematic errors, their effects and compensation
• Test theory

Second part: Surface Modelling and Geostatistical Interpolation

• Basics of Interpolation
Non-statistical and statistical approaches, local and global
influence, artefacts, profile and terrain applications, Inclined
plane vs. General Polynomial and Radial Base Function
approaches, Statistical description of smoothness
• Introduction to Surface Modelling
• Triangular Irregular Networks (TINs), with Delaunay
triangulation,
• Regular Grid DTMs and hybrid DTM’s
• Quality Aspects (estimation of standard deviations)
• DTM Applications (profiles, isolines, volumes, construction
plans, visibility maps, ...)
• Geostatistical Interpolation using Kriging

Projects in the second part cover:

• Experience and report on a commercial DTM software package
(e.g. SCOP of TRIMBLE GmbH, Stuttgart/Germany) Data Input,
point density and morphologic information, parameter settings,
quality evaluation, interactive correction of the interpolation
result.
• Use of ArcGIS Geostatistical Analyst for Kriging Interpolation
Study assessment and Written examination 80 %
Examination: Assignments 20 %

Forms of media: -
Course material:
Literature: Lecture Notes
Karl-Rudolf Koch: Parameter estimation and hypothesis testing in linear
models. Berlin; Heidelberg: Springer, 1999
John R Taylor: An introduction to error analysis – the study of
uncertainties in physical measurements ISBN 093570275X
Mikhail: Observations and least squares ISBN 0700224815

Zhilin Li et al.: Digital Terrain Modelling: Principles and Methodology.

CRC Press, 2005
George Casella, Statistical Interference (The Wadsworth & Brooks/Cole
Roger L Berger: Statistics/Probability Series) IEP New York ISBN
0534119581

-13-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geostatistics and Surface Modeling

Launer, Wilkinson: Robustness in Statistics Academic Press ISBN
0124381502
H Rieder (ed): Robust Statistics Springer ISBN 0387946608
Charles D. Ghilani: Adjustment Computations: Spatial Data Analysis,
John Wiley & Sons Ltd 2010

Software: MATLAB, SCOP/Trimble, ArcGIS Geostatistical Analyst

- 14 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Scientific Skills, Intercultural, Language and Media

Module
Competence
Module code: SLM

Semester: PG 1

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Franz-Josef Behr

Prof. Dr. Behr / Mamier / Singh / Bax / Horlacher / Knaus / Madew /

Lecturer:
Salazar

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory subject MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

The module covers a range of soft skills ranging from scientific
Teaching methods, communication and presentation, intercultural and language
SWS/hours per week: competencies, up to the competent use of modern media. It provides
cross-sectional skills and understanding needed for carrying out
scientific work as well as for entering a professional career.
The basic scientific skills on the Master level include vocal presentation
techniques, and scientific principles on reading, writing and working. The
teaching approach is a very interactive one: Samples of scientific
presentations are analysed and discussed, impulse lectures are given,
and examples of scientific work are outlined by case studies. Media
competence is achieved in lectures with practical exercises (partially
group work). As a project, each student has to prepare and give a
presentation to verify the gained presentation skills. The student himself
has to guide the discussion with the audience. Feedback is given by the
lecturers and students after the presentation.
Regarding the use of the Internet the different ways of professional
communication and presentation are discussed. Students are taught by
lectures and practical exercises to present oneself and own
competencies with standard technologies, i.e. HTML5, CSS, and
JavaScript. (5 SWS)

The objective of the intercultural training part is to handle diversity in a

group of students who will work together for 18 months in the course
program. Thus this part is organized as a weekend seminar at the
beginning of each new batch. Cultural diversity will be discussed by
simulated activities, case studies, critical incidents, role playing, lecture
input, group discussions.
To work on a thesis project externally, to do an internship, or to start a
professional career in a context where English or the mother tongue is
not the main language, good language skills are necessary. This holds
true for international students as well for German students. Thus a
foreign language is taught in a modern communicative manner using
this language itself as a mean for communication. By its initiation, the
learner moves to the center of the teaching. (2 SWS)
Part Scientific Skills and Media Competence:
Contact hours: 75 h, Self-study: 85 h
Part Language:
Workload:
Contact hours :30 h, Self-study: 30 h
Part Intercultural Competence: weekend seminar 20 h
Total : 240 h
Credit points: 8

-15-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Scientific Skills, Intercultural, Language and Media

Module
Competence
Recommended
-
prerequisite subjects:

Expected learning On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
outcomes: • critically review the ethical principles of research.
• assess different forms of scientific publication and knowledge
exchange with means of Internet technology.
• do a profound literature search and review, embed their own
work into a scientific context and present their results
adequately.
• set up the structure of any form of scientific presentation or
scientific publication including electronic methods of scientific
presentations and publishing.
• critically listen to a scientific presentation or read a written
report, understand its purpose and evaluate its relevance for
their own scientific work.
• prepare and deliver an oral presentation including the effective
use of the voice, eye contact, posture, gestures, and
enthusiasm.
• discuss the theoretical bases of intercultural communication
discipline and the rationale behind intercultural learning.
• adapt to a multi-cultural workplace.
• communicate in a foreign language in addition to the mother
tongue, and the language used as medium of instruction.
• master basic technologies for Internet presentation.
• apply the design principles and usability criteria for Internet
presentation to present oneself and scientific results using
standard technologies and to active participation in scientific
information exchange.

Content: Part1: Scientific Skills and Web Media

• Scientific working principles and ethics
• How to prepare and deliver an oral presentation including the
effective use of the voice, eye contact, posture, gestures,
enthusiasm and visual aids
• Writing Scientific Papers (Literature Research, Structure, Literature
Quotes, Good and Bad practice, etc.)
• Basic knowledge about web based presentation: Social media,
professional networking, information interchange in mailing lists,
forums, and working groups
• Practical experience about web site implementation using HTML5,
JavaScript, and CSS
Part 2: Intercultural Training (at the beginning of the course)
• What is culture? Understanding concepts of interculturalism,
multiculturalism, diversity, cultural programming, cultural
Perception.
• Skills and Processes: Perceiving; Communicating; Managing
Cultural Conflict; Coping with Diversity

Part 3: Language Experience (parallel course)

- 16 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Scientific Skills, Intercultural, Language and Media

Module
Competence
• German Course (for those who do not speak German)
• Topics from Ethics or Sustainability coursework or comparable
programs

Scientific and Media Skills Presentation Project 35 %

Study assessment and Written examination: 65 %
Examination: Preparatory Assessment in Language course and attendance
intercultural training

Forms of media: Lectures, workshops, simulation games etc.

Baeza-Yates, R. & Berthier Ribeiro-Neto, B. (2010): Modern Information

Literature: Retrieval. Addison Wesley, 944 pp.
Rowland, R.: The creative Guide to Research. Career Press 2000.
Wayne C. Booth, Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams (2008):
The Craft of Research. University of Chicago Press; Third Edition.
Ben Frain (2015): Responsive Web Design with HTML5 and CSS3 -
Second Edition. Packt Publishing
Steve Krug (2013): Don't Make Me Think: A Common Sense Approach
to Web Usability. New Riders; 3rd revised edition
Shea, Dave, Holzschlag , Molly E. (2005): The Zen of CSS design: visual
enlightenment for the Web. Peachpit Press
Eric A. Meyer (2006): CSS: The Definitive Guide. O'Reilly Media; 3
edition
Hofstede, G., Hofstede, G. (2010): Cultures and Organizations:
Software of the Mind. Third Edition, McGraw Hill, 2004
Stephen M. Croucher, Mélodine Sommier and Diyako Rahmani (2015):
Intercultural communication: Where we’ve been, where we’re going,
issues we face. Communication Research and Practice, 2015, Vol.
1, No. 1, 71–87
Bob Dignen (2011): 50 Ways to Improve Your Presentation Skills in
English. Summertown Publishing. Orient Black Swan
Web Resources
http://www.w3.org/
http://www.csszengarden.com/
http://www.w3schools.com/

Software: HTML Kit Tools (http://www.htmlkit.com/, campus license)

-17-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Advanced Topics in Photogrammetry and

Module
Remote Sensing
Module code: ATP

Semester: PG 2

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Michael Hahn

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Hahn / Prof. Dr. Gülch

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory subject MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Teaching methods, Teaching in this module is composed of teaching through lectures and
SWS/SHW: demonstrations and inquiry-based learning that focuses on student
investigations and hands-on learning. The advanced issues of Digital
Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing are presented in lectures; the
lectures are accompanied by lab assignments and homework
assignments. The assignments aim to foster investigative self-learning
and team-learning and deepen the understanding of advanced
photogrammetric and remote sensing techniques. 4 SWS

contact hours 60 h
Workload:
self-study 120 h
Credit points: 6
Recommended
Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing,
prerequisite
Geostatistics and Surface Modelling
modules:

Expected learning On successful completion of this module, students should be able to

outcomes: • develop, experiment and critically analyse image feature extraction
and matching procedures for different application areas in Digital
Photogrammetry and Computer Vision
• select and employ sophisticated techniques of data processing in
Remote Sensing
• apply principles of colour transformations to solve image data fusion
tasks
• analyse and propose solutions for image and point cloud
classification and accuracy assessment
• examine the advances in image classification
• analyse R&D developments in cartographic feature extraction from
photogrammetric imagery
• propose design strategies for automation tasks in Digital
Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

• recognise leading edge research topics in Digital Photogrammetry

and Remote Sensing, judge their importance for various practical
applications and debate about pro´s and con´s
• evaluate current key research and development issues of Digital
Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing and their applicability to
practice

- 18 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Advanced Topics in Photogrammetry and

Module
Remote Sensing

Content: Advanced Topics in Photogrammetry

Feature extraction, points, lines and regions (Interest -operators for
extracting prominent points, detection, localisation, and classification)
Image matching (Area based matching, feature based matching,
relational matching, semi-global matching, search processes, image
pyramids and scale space, coarse-to-fine processing, robust estimation
in matching)
Automated aerial triangulation (concepts, solutions, analysis)
Automatic DTM and DSM acquisition (solutions, limitations, quality
checks, interactive control)
True-orthophoto
Automated building, road and vegetation extraction from imagery and
point clouds

Advanced Topics in Remote Sensing

Colour (Colour and the spectrum, additive and subtractive colour mixing,
colour transformations, selective absorption of light)
Spectroscopy (continuum vs. resonance bands, influences on spectra,
spectra of common earth-surface materials)
Image transformation and Indices (principal component analysis,
rationing, vegetation indices)
Separability analysis (linear discriminant analysis)
Advances in image classification: from pixel to object, from hard to soft
classifiers, from parametric to non-parametric classifiers
Parametric and non-parametric classifiers (maximum likelihood, artificial
neural networks, support vector machines)
Classification of point clouds (point cloud classification concepts,
morphological filtering, morphological reconstruction)
Post-classification processing (filtering, methods for combining
classifiers)
Classification accuracy assessment (reference source, sampling
strategies, confusion matrix)
Each topic is related to applications, e.g. color to pan-sharpening of
images, spectroscopy to hyperspectral data processing, indices to
vegetation mapping, etc.)
Study assessment and
written examination
Examination:
Lecture notes, made available by learning management system Moodle
Forms of media: e-learning text book: Principles of Remote Sensing, Tempfli et al. (cf.
literature)
tutorial: Fundamentals of Remote Sensing, CCRS
Text books:
Literature: Chris McGlone with Edward Mikhail and James Bethel.: Manual of
Photogrammetry, 5th edition, American Society for Photogrammetry and
Remote Sensing Bethesda, USA, 2004.
Schenk, T.: Digital Photogrammetry, Volume1, TerraScience, 1999.
Wolf, P., Dewitt, B.: Elements of Photogrammetry with Applications in
GIS. Mc Graw Hill, 3rd edition, 2000.

-19-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Advanced Topics in Photogrammetry and

Module
Remote Sensing
Gülch, E., Kaartinen, H., Hyppä, J.: Quality of Buildings Extracted from
Airborne Laserscanning Data – Results of an Empirical Investigation on
3D Building Reconstruction. In Shan/Toth (Eds.) Topographic Laser
Ranging and Scanning: Principles and Processing. Taylor & Francis /
CRC Press 2009.
Mather, P.M. and Koch, M.: Computer Processing of Remotely-Sensed
Images: An Introduction. Fourth Edition, Wiley-Blackwell, 2011.
Sabins, F.: Remote sensing: principles and interpretation, 3rd edition,
W.H. Freemann, 1997.
Lillesand, T.M., Kiefer, R.W., and Chipman, J.W: Remote Sensing and
Image Interpretation, 6th edition, John Wiley Book series, 2007.
Tempfli, K., Kerle, N., Huurneman, G.C., and Janssen, L.L.F. (eds.,
2009): Principles of Remote Sensing - An introductory textbook, ITC
Educational Textbook Series, 4th edition. free download www.itc.nl/
library/papers_2009/general/PrinciplesRemoteSensing.pdf
Congalton, R. G. and K. Green. 1999. Assessing the accuracy of
remotely sensed data: Principles and practices. Lewis Publishers, Boca
Raton.

Proceedings:
International Archives of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing,
http://www.isprs.org/publications/archives.aspx
Scientific journals
Remote Sensing of Environment, ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and
Remote Sensing, Photogrammetric Record, IEEE Transactions on
Geoscience and Remote Sensing, IEEE Applied Earth Observations and
Remote Sensing, Remote Sensing, International Journal of Remote
Sensing, Remote Sensing Letters
Tutorial on Fundamentals of Remote Sensing prepared by CCRS
(Canada Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation)
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/earth-sciences/geomatics/satellite-imagery-air-
photos/satellite-imagery-products/educational-resources/9309
Course material:
Manuscript of lectures, Hand-outs

Software: INPHO's Photogrammetric Workstation (SW and HW) with MATCH-T

DSM, inJECT, DTMaster and Building Generator
Agisoft PhotoScan
Erdas Imagine
eCognition
MATLAB (educational license) is available for all students with a huge
number of toolboxes. They can be used to implement and investigate
algorithmic developments.

- 20 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Customization, Internet GIS, Visualisation

Module code: CIV

Semester: PG 2

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Franz-Josef Behr

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Behr / Prof. Dr. Coors

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory subject MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Teaching methods, Each topic is introduced by a lecture which seeks to identify the main
SWS/SHW: issues in order to convey an understanding of the relative importance of
the technical issues to the customization of software tools, Internet GIS
and Visualization methods related to geomatics. The lectures are
accompanied by guided practices and hands-on workshops in the
computer lab.
Students are expected to use the recommended online tutorials for the
standard issues of programming language used (4 SWS).

contact hours 60 h
Workload:
self-study 120 h

Credit points: 6

Recommended Basic knowledge of a programming languages, XML/HTML, CSS,

prerequisite JavaScript
modules: Knowledge of GIS and geospatial data processing and modelling

Expected learning On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
outcomes: • list different customization approaches in modern system
architectures and apply them,
• explain how geospatial applications works in the Internet and judge
different approaches, applications, interfaces, and architectures to
implement such applications,
• set up a multi-tier Internet / Intranet applications based on standard
software components,
• list which components are required in modern visualization
techniques and integrate them into existing workflows,
• set up a web-based 3D-visualization based on OGC standards.

-21-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Customization, Internet GIS, Visualisation

Part 1: Customization
Content: • Customizing a graphical user interface
• Adding tools and Add-Ins
• Visual geoprocessing modelling

Part 2: Web Mapping and Internet GIS

• client / server and multi-tier architectures
• relevant protocols for client / server communication (HTTP, FTP,
AJAX)
• client-side and server side technologies
• administration of Web servers (like Apache)
• Map Servers and Mapping Clients
• Server side programming and geo-database integration
• Internet Mapping in the Web 2.0 context
Part 3: Visualization
• Computer Assisted Cartography
• data aspects, 3D data formats (X3D, CityGML)
• simplification of terrain models
• visualization from urban and regional model to digital globes
Written examination
Study assessment and
As a prerequisite for the written exam, a number of assignments have
Examination:
to be prepared.
Forms of media: Lecture, Project based Learning, Moodle, video tutorials

Peng, Z., Tsou, M. (2003): Internet GIS: Distributed geographic

Literature: information services for the internet and wireless networks. Wiley,
New Jersey.
Darie, C., Bucica, M., Cherecheş-Toşa, F., Brinzarea, B.: AJAX and PHP:
Building Responsive Web Applications, Packt Publishing, 2005, ISBN
13: 978-1-904811-82-4
Tyler M. (2005): Web Mapping Illustrated
O'Reilly Media, ISBN: 0596008651
Li, S., Dragicevic, S. & Veenendaal, B., Eds. (2011): Advances in Web-
based GIS, Mapping Services and Applications. ISPRS Book Series,
ISBN 9780415804837
Fu, P. & Sun, J. (2011): Web GIS – Principles and applications. ESRI
Press, Redlands, CA
Masser I., Crompvoets, J. (2015): Building European Spatial Data
Infrastructures. Environmental Systems Research Institute Inc., U.S.;
Auflage: 3 (9. Februar 2015)
Web3D conference proceedings (selected papers)
Course material
• Internet GIS: Client Side Technologies (HFT Stuttgart), Server Side
Technologies (HFT Stuttgart)
• Online tutorial x3dom and geovisualization (Fraunhofer IGD / HFT
Stuttgart)
• ESRI ArcGIS
Software:
• Apache HTTPD, PHP, MySQL, JavaScript, d3js, OpenLayers

- 22 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geodata: Capture, Sources and Standards

Module code: GCS

Semester: PG 2

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Lehmkühler

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Huep, Prof. Dr. Lehmkühler, Prof. Dr. Schröder

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory subject MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Teaching methods, Each topic is covered by a lecture addressing the main issues and their
SWS/SHW: impact on GIS related processes. The lectures are designed to stimulate
further self-studies based on provided and recommended (printed and
electronic) material. Emphasis is put on providing cornerstones within
which the student is enabled and encouraged to identify, develop and
assess suitable process chains for various applications.
Especially the GIS format/interface issues will become more evident by
appropriate, tutored assignments, using recent CAD, GIS and Web-GIS
software solutions.
SDI’s subsume the preceding GIS contents as de-facto or planned ways
to use geodata in future. Because the core metadata topic is difficult but
essential it is broadly introduced and justified, discussed in detail and
trained in a supervised assignment. Students are motivated to create
own ideas for business concepts. (5 SWS)

contact hours 75 h
Workload:
self-study 105 h (including 36 h for assignments)

Credit points: 6

Recommended
GIS with GIS-Practice
prerequisite modules:

Expected learning On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
outcomes: • Value and Illustrate direct Geo-referencing,
• Assess suitable positioning methods (especially GNSS) and
differentiate their observables, setups, and error budgets,
• Describe the workflows and parameters necessary in data acquisition
and data analysis, in order to receive consistent geometric data,
• design suitable positioning methods for direct geo-referencing
purposes depending on the use of data,
• Differentiate the structure and content of geodata formats in all levels
of detail,
• State the differences between CAD- and GIS formats,
• Differentiate exchanging data and interoperability,
• Apply standard methods to transform data from one data model into
another one,
• Define the scope of OGC and ISO work as given in the different
standards,
• Value and Illustrate OGC Web Services as a basic technology for
spatial data infrastructures,
• Design a data distribution and data retrieval infrastructure,

-23-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geodata: Capture, Sources and Standards

• Value the need for metadata with suitable degree of detail,
• Distinguish the relevant standardization initiatives with their underlying
technical concepts and business ideas,
• design suitable structures for state, regional or local geodata
infrastructures,
• Apply typical business concepts to geodata services.

Topic 1: Data Capture and Geo-Referencing:

Content: • Positioning: Observables (distances, angles, accelerations etc.) and
representation of objects (by points, lines and surfaces) in various levels
of accuracy.
• Surveying and Positioning Methods: Polar (total stations,
laserscanners), satellite-based (GNSS) and dynamic (inertial) systems.
Other positioning techniques (mobile phone networks, hot spots etc.).
Special emphasis put on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GPS,
GLONASS, Galileo), their enhancements (EGNOS, WAAS) and ground
network services. Various GPS positioning modes, such as GPS, DGPS,
PDGPS, A-GPS to be discussed.
• Error Budgets in Positioning: Gross, systematic and random errors;
probabilities and related confidence regions. Kinematic modeling of
moving measurement platforms.
• Geodetic Reference Systems: Their impact on the use of various
positioning methods, e.g. GPS satellite observations (WGS 84) not
complying with national datums, height impacts on GPS results, etc.
Boresight alignment and direct geo-referencing in photogrammetry and
LIDAR applications.

Topic 2: GIS Formats and Interfaces

In the introduction the economic importance of using data from other
institutions and systems is explained as well as the differences between
exchanging data and using data in an interoperable way. The simple
feature specification of the OGC is taken as a base to compare other
formats and structures.

Main subjects of this lecture are the discussion of common data formats
like
• Data Exchange Format DXF (AutoCAD),
• ArcView Shape (ESRI),
• Geographic Markup Language (GML),
and the interoperable use of data based on Web Services (especially
WMS and WFS) and on a common database format like Oracle
SDO_Geometry.

Main topics of assignments are related to these subjects:

Exchanging data between different systems using the on board
interfaces as well as the Feature Manipulating Engine (FME) as an
independent transformation software. Thereby students also can see
the importance of knowledge in spatial coordinate systems.
Interoperable use of data and combining local data with Web
Services.

Topic 3: Spatial data Infrastructures

- 24 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Geodata: Capture, Sources and Standards

Metadata: Criteria about data, Quality: Metadata Content
Standards and Profiles (CSDGM, ISO 19119), Metadata
software: editors, checkers, search engines, gazetteer and
thesauri services
Service Oriented Architectures
Spatial Data Infrastructures
the concept of OGC service definitions regarding SDI’s: Data,
Process, Library and Human Interface Services, Sensor
integration
Proprietary and Non-Proprietary software for SDI’s
The Geodata Market:
Private, Business and Governmental actors,
Geodata Business

Study assessment and 80% written examination

Examination: 20 % assignments / project

Forms of media: -

Literature: Course material and white papers.

Descriptions on web sites of various developers and suppliers in the
fields of surveying, GIS and CAD systems
Smith, J.R.: Introduction to Geodesy, The History and Modern
Concepts of Geodesy. John Wiley & Sons.
Burkard, R.K. et al: Geodesy for the Layman. NOAA.
Seeber, G.: Satellite Geodesy – Foundations, Methods and
Applications. Walter de Gruyter.
OGC Specifications:
- Simple Feature Specification,
- Geography Markup Language (GML),
- Web Map Service (WMS),
- Web Feature Service (WFS) and others
http://www.opengeospatial.org/
Lake, R. et al: Geography Mark-Up Language (GML), John Wiley &
Sons
White Papers of ESRI and Autodesk for ArcView Shape and DXF
Burrough, P.A.; McDonnell, R.A.: Principles of Geographical
Information Systems. Oxford University Press, 1998, reprinted 2000
(Chapters about Data Quality)
FGDC: The Federal Geographic Data Committee’s Website
http://www.fgdc.gov/standards/, checked 2016
Nebert, D. (Editor): Global spatial data infrastructure. Developing
Spatial Data Infrastructures: The SDI Cookbook, 25 January 2004, p.8.
Ordnance Survey: Future trends in geospatial information
management: the five to ten year vision, 2012

Software: ArcGIS, FME, Autodesk MAP

-25-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Planning, Organisation and Management

Module code: POM

Semester: PG 2

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dieter Uckelmann

Lecturer: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dieter Uckelmann / Wilfer

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Lecture, student seminar, case studies, presentations,

tutorials, discussions and assignments, in order to provide an
Teaching methods, in-depth sight into general business and marketing processes.
SWS/SHW: Additionally, each student has to carry out and present an
individual business plan, based on his/her personal
background and interest. (5 SWS)

contact hours: 75 h
Workload:
self-study: 105 h (including 30 h for assignments / project)

Credit points: 6
Recommended prerequisite
-
subjects:
On successful completion of this module, students should be
Expected learning outcomes: able to:
• contrast and describe the specific characteristics of
marketing, market segmentation and pricing.
• distinguish different business organization types.
• distinguish different legal forms for businesses.
• analyze and create business potentials based on the
Business Model Canvas model.
• apply fundamental investment calculations.
• construct and evaluate a business plan.
• describe cost structures of a company.
• analyze self-costs.
• calculate key financial figures and requirements for a
possible start-up business.
• judge the accuracy of financial plans.
• describe and apply fundamental project management
principles.
• analyze project tenders.
• apply tools and IT for planning and project
management.

Study assessment and 80% written examination

Examination: 20% project work (business plan, case study project)

Forms of media: Presentations/slides, Moodle, readings

Literature: Course material, company publications, brochures, etc., varying

from case to case.

- 26 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Planning, Organisation and Management

Books:
Makers: The New Industrial Revolution; Chris Anderson, 2012
Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game
Changers, and Challengers; Alexander Osterwalder, Yves
Pigneur, 2011
Marketing Management; Philip Kotler, Kevin Lane Keller, 2011
The New Strategic Selling: The Unique Sales System Proven
Successful by the World's Best Companies; Robert B. Miller,
2011
The Project Management Life Cycle: A Complete Step-by-Step
Methodology for Initiating, Planning, Executing and Closing a
Project Successfully; Jason Westland, 2006.

Software: MS-Excel

-27-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Remote Sensing Studios (Elective)

Module code: RSS

Semester: PG 2

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Michael Hahn

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Hahn / Prof. Dr. Gülch

Relation to curriculum: Elective module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

The teaching method of this module follows a kind of project-based
Teaching methods, learning approach. The challenge for the lecturer is to guide students in
SWS/hours per week: the process while the students study topics with a well-defined purpose.
Projects have a complex but flexible framework within which advise
given by the lecturer and learning are seen as interactive processes.
Students work together in small groups in a studio atmosphere with the
aim to master a problem and solve it together. To promote independent
and self-organised work of the students the contribution of the lecturer is
limited to a small number of contact hours, e.g. one afternoon every two
weeks for all groups.
The project approach promotes research oriented group work and aims
at an in-depth understanding of challenging issues. A variety of studio
projects is offered as electives to the students. Each student must
undertake one of the studio projects. The topics stem from the field of
advanced remote sensing.
The working environment for a studio is typically the laboratory or other
student working spaces. The research work of a studio project typically
consists of several phases: analysis of the problem and literature survey,
development of a possible solution, poster presentation and defence of
the proposed solution, implementation (e.g. scripts with Matlab or
Python), experimental investigation and report writing, and finally the
presentation of the project. (2 SWS)
Workload: contact hours 30 h, self-study 90 h

Credit points: 4
Recommended
PRS, GSM
prerequisite modules:
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Expected learning • develop own research proposals in a group and compare and
outcomes: contrast published research to their own original thoughts,
• structure the research project activities efficiently with the aim to
solve a given problem within a specified time frame,
• monitor and assess their research progress,
• practice successful team work, audit the achievements of the group
on a weekly basis and anticipate the challenges for the following
week,
• understand and apply sophisticated techniques for acquiring
remotely sensed data,
• investigate advanced methods for image and point cloud processing
and analysis,
• criticize, assess and evaluate the applicability of remotely sensed
data for various applications

- 28 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Remote Sensing Studios (Elective)

Content is given exemplary. The project topics change from year to year.
Content: 1. Acquisition of remotely sensed data
with RGB and VIS-NIR cameras, thermography camera, time-
of-flight camera, spectrometer, UAV lights, mobile mapping,
hand-held laserscanning
2. Image and point cloud processing and analysis
Band ratios, texture, segmentation, filtering, image matching,
point cloud generation and filtering, point cloud feature
extraction and matching
3. Image classification
Pixel and object based classifier, multi- and hyperspectral
classifier (HyMap data), random forests, Neural Network, deep
learning, change detection with e.g. Landsat and Worldview data
4. Processing and applications of remotely sensed data
Geometric and radiometric calibration, vegetation stress
mapping, urban heat islands, solar potential of a 3D city model,
road crack detection, indoor mapping, etc.
Study assessment and 50 % written report
Examination: 50 % presentation (individual defence of the project work)
Concept development on paper or chalkboard, communication tools for
Forms of media: co-ordination of the activities and for time management, poster
presentations for the mid-term review
Text books
Literature: Lillesand, Kiefer, and Chipman “Remote Sensing and Image
Interpretation”, 6th edition 2007, John Wiley
Prasad, Bruce, Chanussot (Eds.) “Optical Remote Sensing. Advances in
Signal Processing and Exploitation Techniques”, 2011, Springer Verlag
Proceedings
International Archives of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
http://www.isprs.org/publications/archives.aspx
Scientific journals
Remote Sensing of Environment, ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and
Remote Sensing, IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote
Sensing, IEEE Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing,
Remote Sensing, International Journal of Remote Sensing, Remote
Sensing Letters
Tutorial on Fundamentals of Remote Sensing prepared by CCRS
(Canada Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation)
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/earth-sciences/geomatics/satellite-imagery-air-photos/satellite-
imagery-products/educational-resources/9309
Course material: Selected papers, Hand-outs
MATLAB (educational license) is available for all students with a huge
Software: number of toolboxes. They can be used to implement and investigate
algorithmic developments.
Erdas Imagine, eCognition, Agisoft PhotoScan, SAGA GIS with
Laserdata LIS, CloudCompare, Meshlab, other open source software

-29-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module GIS Studios (Elective)

Module code: GSS

Semester: PG 2

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Franz-Josef Behr

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Behr / Prof. Dr. Coors

Relation to curriculum: Elective module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Teaching methods, The teaching method of this module follows a project-based learning
SWS/SHW: approach. The project approach promotes research oriented group
work and aims at an in-depth understanding of challenging issues. A
variety of studio projects is offered as electives to the students. Each
student must undertake one of the studio projects. The topics stem
from the field of advanced Geoinformatics.
Students work together in small groups in a studio atmosphere with the
aim to master a problem and solve it together. To promote independent
and self-organised work of the students the contribution of the lecturer
is limited to a small number of contact hours, e.g. one afternoon every
two weeks for all groups. The project approach promotes research
oriented group work and aims at an in-depth understanding of
challenging issues.
The working environment for a studio is typically the laboratory or other
student working spaces. The research work of a studio project typically
consists of several phases: analysis of the problem and literature
survey, development of a possible solution, poster presentation and
defence of the proposed solution, implementation, experimental
investigation and report writing, and finally the presentation of the
project. (2 SWS)

contact hours 30 h
Workload:
self-study 90 h

Credit points: 4

Recommended Basic knowledge of a programming languages, XML/HTML, CSS,

prerequisite subjects: JavaScript
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Expected learning
outcomes: • develop own research proposals in a group and compare and
contrast published research to their own original thoughts.
• structure project activities efficiently with the aim to solve a given
problem within a specified time frame.
• assess and document a research progress
• structure a research topic and work successfully in a research
project.
• understand and apply techniques for customization approaches in
modern system architectures,
• explain and implement different approaches, applications,
interfaces, and architectures to implement geospatial applications,
• integrate modern visualization techniques into existing workflows

- 30 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module GIS Studios (Elective)

Content is given exemplary. The project topics change from year to
Content: year.
• Cluster detection in ArcGIS desktop
Programming an ArcGIS Add-In in Python tool for point pattern
analysis. The task is to find clusters of points based on their spatial
and temporal characteristics using statistical methods, like Knox’s
method.
• Point cloud analysis and visualization
Develop a software to read a point cloud into a kd-Tree (use
existing library), and apply an algorithm to detect windows in a
given point cloud. (Java programming)
• Implementing a complete OS GIS stack on a single-board computer
Implement a full OS GIS stack, like OSGeo-Live, on a computer like
Banana PI or banana PRO to provide a chip platform for geodata
distribution and education. Banana Pi is a single-board computer
based on open source software.
• Modelling of dormers to enhance 3D city model
Extend an existing 3D city model by modeling dormers and
“shadow elements” into the roof structure to improve photovoltaic
potential analysis. Modelling should be done using Google
SketchUp and the GeoRes CityGML plugin.
Study assessment and 50 % written report
Examination: 50 % presentation (individual defence of the project work)

Forms of media: Project based Learning, Moodle, video tutorials

Peng, Z.-R., Tsou, M.-H. (2003): Internet GIS: Distributed geographic
Literature: information services for the internet and wireless networks. Wiley,
New Jersey.
Darie, C., Bucica, M., Cherecheş-Toşa, F., Brinzarea, B. (2005): AJAX
and PHP: Building Responsive Web Applications, Packt Publishing,
ISBN: 978-1-904811-82-4
Tyler Mitchell (2005): Web Mapping Illustrated
O'Reilly Media, ISBN: 0596008651
Li, S., Dragicevic, S. & Veenendaal, B., Eds. (2011): Advances in Web-
based GIS, Mapping Services and Applications. ISPRS Book
Series, ISBN 9780415804837
Fu, P. & Sun, J. (2011): Web GIS – Principles and applications. ESRI
Press, Redlands, CA
Masser I., Crompvoets, J. (2015): Building European Spatial Data
Infrastructures. Environmental Systems Research Institute Inc. U.S.;
Auflage: 3 (9. Februar 2015)
Newton, T., Villarrea O. (2014): Learning D3.js Mapping. Packt
Publishing
Course material
• Internet GIS: Client Side Technologies (HFT Stuttgart), Server Side
Technologies (HFT Stuttgart)
• Online tutorial x3dom and geovisualization (Fraunhofer IGD / HFT
Stuttgart)
As required, e.g.
• ESRI ArcGIS, QGIS, WhiteBox
Software:
• Eclipse
• Apache HTTPD, PHP, MySQL, JavaScript, d3js, OpenLayers

-31-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Radar Remote Sensing (Elective)

Module code: RAD

Semester: PG 2

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Michael Hahn

Lecturer: Dr. Esch / (Prof. Dr. Hahn )

Relation to curriculum: Elective module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Teaching methods Teaching in this module is divided into two units. In the first unit
SWS/hours per week: the fundamentals of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) are
introduced by lectures. For preparation and review of the SAR
fundaments the students are encouraged to review the
Microwave Remote Sensing tutorial prepared by the Canada
Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation.
In the second unit the principles of SAR image understanding
and analysis are introduced to the students in a mix of class
room lectures and hands-on training with remote sensing
software. Collaborative work in lab exercises is expected;
students will give presentations on the results of the exercises
and the gained practical skills regarding the analysis of SAR
data.
Applications related to InSAR, coherence and time series
analysis, supplemented on-demand by other processes, are
presented by case studies to put attention to the growing
importance of SAR remote sensing. (2 SWS)

contact hours 30 h
Workload:
self-study 30 h

Credit points: 2

Recommended prerequisite Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

modules: Geostatistics and Surface Modelling
On successful completion of this module, students should be
Expected learning outcomes: able to:
• describe the essentials of radar sensors and explain the
similarities and differences to optical remote sensing
sensors
• point out why the use of a SAR is the only practical
option for radar remote sensing from space
• explain the SAR processing chain for generating
calibrated radar products
• discuss the image effects of radar's side-looking
geometry and justify why this geometry makes radar so
useful for terrain analysis
• interpret radar images with respect to forest, land use
and land cover areas based on the knowledge of how
radar energy interacts with a target
• analyse radar images with respect to the recorded
frequency bands, polarization

- 32 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Radar Remote Sensing (Elective)

• analyse radar images with respect to object specific
imaging parameters, in particular surface roughness,
scattering, terrain and object geometry
• evaluate the results of applying speckle filtering
• understand phase difference measurements to derive
the speed of motion of targets and discuss applications
like determination of sea-ice drift, ocean currents, and
ocean wave parameters
• carry out data stretching, speckle suppression and
textural feature extraction
• apply classification techniques for identification of built-
up areas
• apply techniques for calculating polarimetric and
coherence-related parameters
• explain applications in which polarimetric SAR is used
for crop type identification, soil moisture measurement,
shoreline detection, ship detection and classification, sea
ice identification, coastal windfield measurement
1. Fundamentals
Content: SAR principle: RADAR, imaging concept, viewing
concept, geometric resolution
System-specific imaging parameters: frequency,
polarization, imaging geometry
Object-specific imaging parameters: surface roughness,
dielectric properties, terrain and object geometry,
scattering mechanism
SAR image data: data properties, speckle effect
2. SAR image understanding and analysis
Image interpretation,
Image enhancement: data stretch, speckle suppression,
textural features
Image classification: Identification of built-up areas
3. Applications
Interferometry (InSAR), D-InSAR, velocity measurement,
polarimetry (PolSAR), coherence analysis, urban
analysis
Study assessment and
100 % written examination
Examination:
Lectures with digital or printed notes, supervised exercises,
Forms of media:
CCRS tutorial with quiz
Text books:
Literature: F. T. Ulaby, R. K. Moore and A. K. Fung, Microwave Remote
Sensing - Active and Passive, Vol. I: Microwave Remote Sensing
Fundamentals and Radiometry. Artech House, Norwood, US.
1981.
F. T. Ulaby, R. K. Moore and A. K. Fung, Microwave Remote
Sensing - Active and Passive, Vol. III: From Theory to
Applications. Artech House, Norwood, US. 1986.
C. Oliver and S. Quegan, Understanding Synthetic Aperture
Radar Images, Boston: Artech House, 1998.
Papers, Book chapters:

-33-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Radar Remote Sensing (Elective)

Henderson, F.M. and Z.G. Xia, Radar Applications in Urban
Analysis, Settlement Detection and Population Analysis. In:
Henderson, F.M. and A.J. Lewis (Eds.): Principles and
Applications of Imaging Radar, Chapter 15. New York, S. 733-768,
1998.
J. W. Goodman, Some fundamental properties of speckle, J. of
the Optical Society of America, Vol. 66, pp.1145 – 1150, 1976.
Lee, J.S., A Simple Speckle Smoothing Algorithm for Synthetic
Aperture Radar Images. In: SMC (13), 1983, pp. 85-89., 1983.
Esch, T., Marconcini, M., Felbier, A., Roth, A., Heldens, W.,
Huber, M., Schwinger, M., Taubenböck, H., Müller, A., Dech, S.,
Urban Footprint Processor – Fully Automated Processing Chain
Generating Settlement Masks from Global Data of the TanDEM-X
Mission. IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Letters, Vol. 10,
No. 6, pp. 1617-1621, 2013
Esch, T., Taubenböck, H., Roth, A., Heldens, W., Felbier, A.,
Thiel, M., Schmidt, M., Müller, A., Dech, S., TanDEM-X mission-
new perspectives for the inventory and monitoring of global
settlement patterns. J. of Applied Remote Sensing, Vol. 6, Issue
1; 21 pp. 2012
Esch, T., Schenk, A., Ullmann, T., Thiel, M., Roth, A. And S. Dech,
Characterization of Land Cover Types in TerraSAR-X Images by
Combined Analysis of Speckle Statistics and Intensity Information,
IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing, 15 pp.,
2011.
Esch, T., Thiel, M., Schenk, A., Roth, A., Muller, A. And Dech, S.,
Delineation of Urban Footprints from TerraSAR-X Data by
Analyzing Speckle Characteristics and Intensity Information, IEEE
Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Vol. 48, Issue
2, pp. 905-916, 2010.
Tutorial on Microwave Remote Sensing prepared by CCRS
(Canada Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation)
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/earth-sciences/geomatics/satellite-
imagery-air-photos/satellite-imagery-products/educational-
resources/9309
Course material:
Manuscript of lectures, Hand-outs
For the exercises and training:
Software:
Erdas Imagine, Nest und PolSAR-Pro

Module GIS Programming (Elective)

Module code: GPR

Semester: PG 2

- 34 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder

Relation to curriculum: Elective module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

In the lecture part the theoretical background in the use of a modern

Teaching methods, scripting language like Python will be discussed. The focus will be in
SWS/hours per week: using the scripting language in the context of geoprocessing in
proprietary GIS like ArcGIS as well as Open Source GIS.
The lectures are accompanied by guided practices and intensive hand-
on workshops in the computer lab. (2 SWS)
contact hours 30 h
Workload:
self-study 30 h

Credit points: 2
Recommended
Basic knowledge of a programming language
prerequisite knowledge:
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to
Expected Learning • to use Python as a programming tool
outcomes: • to apply the basic concepts of object-oriented programming to
solve geoprocessing problems in an application oriented manner
• to transform a typical abstract geoprocessing task into an
executable tool
• to integrate scripting tools into a proprietary and open source GIS
environment
• to extend and customize existing component-based software
programs using a scripting language.
Programming techniques using Python
Content: • Python as scripting language
• Classes and objects: properties, methods and events
• scripting for geoprocessing with ArcGIS
• scripting for customizing ArcGIS projects
• geoprocessing with Python in an open source environment
Study assessment and
written exam
Examination:
Forms of media: Lecture and guided exercises in the lab, self-study
Literature: Python org (2015): Beginner's Guide to Python
Allen, David (2014): GIS Tutorial for Python Scripting. ESRI Press
Jennings, Nathan (2011): A Python Primer for ArcGIS.
Zandbergen, Paul (2014): Python Scripting for ArcGIS. ESRI Press
Chris Garrard (2009): Geoprocessing with Python using Open Source
GIS. http://www.gis.usu.edu/~chrisg/python/2009/

Software: Eclipse, Python, ESRI ArcGIS, QGIS, OGR/GDAL

-35-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Research Seminar

Module code: RSE

Semester: PG 3

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Eberhard Gülch

Prof. Dr. Gülch / Prof. Dr. Hahn
Lecturer:
and other faculty members depending on actual focal points.
Relation to curriculum: Compulsory module MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics
Each student has to select one topic for the project proposal which is the
Teaching methods, key result of this module. The selection is from a list of topics provided by
SWS/hours per week: supervisors or according to own personal interests.

Lectures: Will provide an introduction to the key topics of the module

and these will be supported by structured class discussions.

Class and Group Discussion: Class and group discussions will be

driven and supported by appropriate academic literature and will allow for
ideas and issues to be clarified. These discussions will enable students
to draw on their own knowledge of the research process and they will be
encouraged to evaluate the different approaches to research. Students
get hints on how to co-operate with their supervisor and how to actually
perform research work including the monitoring of progress.

Independent Study: Participants will be responsible for engaging in

independent reading in order to consolidate and expand on the material
covered in lectures and class discussions

Research Seminar: The students present and defend their research

plans in a research seminar attended by all candidates. It is stimulating
scientific discussion of the individual proposals and allows to identify
possible synergy effects.

Post-graduate seminar: A post-graduate seminar with external guest

professors and docents, professors at HFT and PhD students at HFT
gives insight in key research topics in the fields related to this course.
(3 SWS)
contact hours 45 h
Workload:
self-study 75 h

Credit points: 4

Recommended
All preceding modules
prerequisite modules:

- 36 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Research Seminar

On completion of this module, the learner will be able to
Expected learning • define research and the aims of research
outcomes: • identify issues and problems which are of professional concern
and which are capable of further exploration and research
• formulate research objectives and questions
• critically appraise a range of different research methodologies
and research methods and select appropriate options to apply in
relevant research settings
• make decisions about quantitative and qualitative approaches to
research
• formulate/draw-up an acceptable research proposal suitable for
a dissertation topic at postgraduate level
• defend the research proposal in a seminar with fellow students
and supervisors
This module provides an understanding of the nature of, and the
Content: different approaches to, contemporary research and support
participants in planning and writing a research proposal within an
applied construction context at postgraduate level. This is a specialised
module intended for participants proceeding to conduct a masters’
dissertation within an applied construction setting.

The module is structured to give participants an understanding of

contemporary research paradigms, methodologies and methods.

The module will deal with issues and concerns around the
• setting of research objectives,
• development of analytical and communication skills by
investigating, in depth, a topic of interest and relevance to the
course,
• evaluating and selecting an appropriate methodology,
• conducting a critical literature review,
• analyzing potentials and risks,
• setting up a realistic research plan, including working packages,
resource requirements and feasible milestones,
• exploring methodological issues related to the presentation and
analysis of qualitative and quantitative research findings and the
drawing of appropriate conclusions,

• indicating the major goal and the scientific and commercial)

benefits,
• considering the ethical dimensions of research,
• writing a scientific thesis proposal,
• identifying and applying a close communication with the
supervisor(s),
• participating in post-graduate seminar to acquire knowledge on
a broader level of research topics in the fields of this course,
• basic issues on how to present work in scientific posters and
writing articles for scientific journals.

-37-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Research Seminar

Presentations in thesis-accompanying seminars focus on:
• presenting current status of work, reporting on intermediate
results also with posters,
• identifying research and time problems (actual-nominal
comparisons),
• analyzing the seminar group's feedback for further research
input,
• re-adjusting preliminary and final proposal due to external input
and further research.

Assignment (Proposal for Master´s Thesis)

Study assessment and • Report 50%
Examination: • Presentation of proposal including its defence in the Research
Seminar 50%
A wide range of multi-media materials help to enrich the learning
Forms of media:
experience.

Handouts (as pdfs) on proposal preparation, writing thesis report,

Literature:
evaluation criteria and mark sheets, writing journal articles and ethical
issues.
James Mauch & Namgi Park (2003). Guide to the successful Thesis and
Dissertation; Fifth Edition, Marcel Dekker, Inc., 270 Madison Avenue,
New York, New York 10016, U.S.A.
Maria Piantanida & Noreen Garman (2009). The Qualitative
Dissertation; 2nd Edition, Corwin Press Inc California
Anderson, J. & Poole, M. (2001). Assignment and thesis writing (4th
Edn.). Brisbane: John Wiley & Sons

Software: Science Direct, Google Scholar et al.

- 38 -
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

Module Master Thesis

Module code: MTH

Semester: PG 3

Responsible for module: Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder

Lecturer: All faculty members supervising a thesis

Relation to curriculum: Compulsory subject MSc Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics

Teaching methods, Individual research work

SWS/SHW: Regularly discussion meetings with supervisor

Workload: Self-study 720 h

Credit points: 24

Recommended
All preceding modules
prerequisite modules:

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

Expected learning
• Acquire more in -depth knowledge of the field of study
outcomes:
• Independently search and apply theory and concepts to the
problem under study
• Independently select, justify and apply an appropriate research
method for the research to be performed
• Demonstrate the capability to use a holistic view to critically and
independently identify, formulate and deal with complex issues
• Critically and systematically evaluate and integrate knowledge from
different sources
• Demonstrate verbal and written communication skills to clearly
present, discuss and defend a clear and well-structured account
in English
• Reflect critically on his or her own research process and outcomes
and relate them to related research
• Finish the master thesis within the time period specified

Actual domain specific topics in research and development. Individual

Content:
topics from home countries are encouraged

• Thesis
Study assessment and
• Poster
Examination:
• Presentation and defence of thesis

Forms of media: Supervised self study

Literature: See module RSE

Software: As required

-39-
 Prof. Dr. Dietrich Schröder Schellingstrasse 24 www.hft-stuttgart.de
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart
Programme Director D-70174 Stuttgart [email protected]
University of Applied Sciences

4. Technical Journals
Most of the journals available at the faculty and at the library of HFT are in German language. At the
faculty, you will find the following English journals
- Geoinformatica (print and electronic) a scientific English journal and
- ArcUser and ArcNews, the ESRI journals
- The Photogrammetric Record an International journal of Photogrammetry
- Inside GNSS a technical journal about global navigation systems
and others.
English articles you will also find in
- GIS Zeitschrift für Geoinformatik and
- PFG Photogrammetrie, Fernerkundung und Geoinformation
Many (business) journals nowadays are available online for free, e.g. GIM Global Magazine for
Geomatics http://www.gim-international.com/

You should keep up to date with the new development by having a look into the journals regularly!

In addition, the electronic domain specific database ScienceDirect / Elsevier can be used for information
retrieval via the homepage of our library.

Additional technical journals you will find at the library of the University Stuttgart. Use the ZDB (The ZDB
is the world’s largest specialized database for serial titles (journals, annuals, and newspapers etc., incl.
e-journals) where the journals you are looking for are available.

5. Additional Courses and Offers

German Language Courses
During the whole study period, additional German language courses are offered for a low fee sponsored
by the University. Even if the medium of instruction of the course is English, these courses are highly
recommended. You will live in a German environment, some of you may want to get a job outside the
University or take part at an additional internship.
Every semester during lecture period, students from the German courses will offer discussion groups
for non-German speaking students, so that you can enjoy practicing your German in an informal and
relaxed manner.

Other Language Courses

Besides German, there are other languages courses like French, Italian, etc. offered by the Foreign
Language Institute. All these courses are offered for free! Please see the announcement of the Institute.

MATLAB Tutorial
As MATLAB will be used as a tool in several modules, an additional introduction tutorial will be offered
at the beginning of the first semester.

- 40 -