​Course Structure: Small groups with expert, knowledgeable and experienced mentors leading the workshops which will be a daily mix of theoretical presentation, hands-on experience on dedicated small boats and reflection exercises to maximise each day’s learning. 
​Course Setting: The course will be based in separate and comfortable accommodation with close access to all amenities and with a personal cook to ensure great food and satisfaction of all dietary needs. Practical sessions will be on private boats with exclusive use for the study group which will be limited to ten persons. There will be the additional option of gaining additional experience if desired alongside AWdF volunteers on various whale watching boats.
The course will cover:
  • Theoretical overview of acoustics research and of the use of hydrophones in this work
  • Review of (different) species observed with acoustics equipment with case studies to illustrate the range and power of the approach.
  • Overview of internationally agreed parameters for cetacean research,  invasive and non- invasive
  • Practical training in the use of hydrophones   
  • Field experience, hands-on, using a hydrophone to record acoustic data on bottlenose dolphins and pilot whale ‘families’ studied by the AWdF
  • Processing of data recorded and safeguarding same, linking data to other data collection techniques to achieve a holistic understanding of behaviour observed.
  • Application and use of acoustic software for data analyse
  • Review of Photo Identification and other cetacean research methods
  • Review of past and current acoustics projects around the world
  • Contact list of senior projects around the world
  • Certificate 
Cost:
£1,150 - 1 week workshop to cover: comfortable accommodation; rib excursions, tutoring and hands-on experience; certificate indicating level of competence in each area of practical experience. Meals are either self catering or free at the Volunteer Centre (excluding lunch)
10% Discount if two courses booked together, 15% if three courses booked and 20% if all four courses booked at the same time.
​Course runs Monday to Friday with free time at the weekend. We can arrange a wide range of optional extra activities during free time; sea kayaking, scuba diving, paragliding, star gazing, horse riding, wine tasting, surfing including kite surfing, trekking and much more.
Transport will be provided throughout except airport pick ups where discounted taxis can be organised.
Available dates: 2019
May: 6th-10th
June: 3rd- 7th
July: 1st-5th
August: 5th-9th
September: 2nd- 6th
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