The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
(CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2011 in our
purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. The
aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest methods
for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including line and
point transects. The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the
field, using industry-standard software.
The first workshop (30 August - 2 September) will run at an introductory
level, and will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as
described in the standard reference book "Introduction to Distance
Sampling." The workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and
participants will learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants
will gain a solid grounding in both survey design and methods of
analysis for distance sampling surveys. Note this year we have moved
the 'automated survey design' topic out of the advanced workshop into
the introductory workshop.
The advanced distance sampling workshop (5-7 September) will include
advanced treatment of: incorporating covariates in detection function
modelling, analyses in which detectability on the transect line is not
assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and spatial (or
density surface) modelling. The aim of this workshop is to bring
participants up to date with the latest developments in distance
sampling methods and software. It is also an opportunity for those
actively engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance
sampling surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future
research directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and
computer sessions, with considerable time for discussion.
For both workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data.
Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their
own laptops.
Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/distance2011/workshop_overview.html
