This course involves training in communication and information technology, and conventional and rapid appraisal methods of assessment of coastal environments (RACE) for acquisition of primary and secondary data. Students will also be introduced to environmental assessment techniques and economic valuation methods, training in the use of remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS), techniques for coastal management and planning. It will introduce students to proposal writing, budgeting and research planning, as well as data collection and processing. Application of statistics to the analysis of data and how inferences are made from data will be discussed. Students will be expected to undertake some practical work, which applies the classroom knowledge to field experience.