Mapeamento dos ex-alunos do curso a distância de Introdução ao Sensoriamento Remoto das edições de 2005 a 2012

The objective of this paper is to present the results of a comprehensive survey carried out among the alumni of former editions (2005-2012) of the Introduction to Remote Sensing course using e-learning. The main goal of these courses is to diffuse the use of remote sensing technology highlighting environmental applications. Teleduc, a free and open Learning Management System, has been used to support these courses fostering the interaction among students with different backgrounds. Course materials include text books, CD-ROMs, videos and web-conference sessions. Hands-on activities have been made available through specially well-organized tutorials and selected datasets. Students are encouraged to use SPRING (INPE image processing free software) and explore data from their own study areas among the several public sources available (CBERS and LANDSAT images, digital maps and SRTM data). Using a free online survey software tool (SurveyMonkey), questionnaires were sent to 470 ex-students approved in the course, with return of 167 answers. The nineteen (19) prepared questions aimed at seeking information that would enable assessment of the contribution of the courses to the professional development of these former students. The results of this survey show the relevant contribution of these introductory courses to the dissemination of Geotechnologies and Remote Sensing, as well as, to the use of CBERS data and SPRING software. It confirms the feasibility of using distance education for teaching Remote Sensing, including image interpretation and processing. It also points towards the need to continue improving the existing courses and investing in new options to meet the growing demand.Pages: 2626-263