Bridging geomatics theory to real-world applications in alpine surveys through an innovative summer school teaching program

Abstract

Teaching experience in geomatics heavily relies on hands-on activities, but field surveys for educational purposes are usually conducted in controlled environments without proper connection to real-world scenarios. Combining the widespread availability of low-cost equipment with the potential of Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial (FOSS4G) in innovative teaching programmes can fill the gap in preparing young professionals in geomatics and surveying for real-world problems and global challenges, including climate change. This paper presents the active learning experience of the Belvedere Glacier Summer School organized annually by the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering of Politecnico di Milano in the Italian Alps. During the week-long programme of theoretical and practical sessions, students from different backgrounds, ranging from Engineering to Architecture and Geoinformatics, transform knowledge into skills by designing and carrying out surveys focused on monitoring the evolution of the glacier volume, using GNSS and UAV photogrammetry, and familiarising with 2D and 3D data processing. In a peer-led environment, participants also contribute to the production of open data (orthophotos, DSM and point measurements) published in Zenodo, fostering teamwork and collaboration not only internally but also with the wider research community.