​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:
  • Review of  photo Identification as a tool in the study of animals in general
  • Review of cetacean research projects incorporating photo Identification techniques to  include a review of internationally agreed cetacean research parameters for intrusive and non-intrusive research
  • Review of AWdF photo identification work over a 30 year period.
  • Use of DSLR cameras: shutter speed, lenses etc.
  • Evaluation of photographs taken with hints for improving quality. This will be a process aimed over the period of the course at producing high quality images.
  • Use of theodolite in land based cetacean research.
  • Hands on practical in use of a theodolite in observation and monitoring of cetaceans
  • Processing of data, safe guarding protocols and analysis
  • Use of software to enhance images
  • Linking research methods- photo id/ theodolite/ acoustics/ observation
  • Review of current cetacean work opportunities available
  • Certificate indicating level of skills acquired.
Cost:
£850 - 1 week workshop to cover: comfortable accommodation; excursions on whale watching boats, 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. 

OPTIONAL
Star gazing
Wine making/ tasting
Fiesta
Activities   diving, surfing, kayaking, horse riding
Transport will be provided throughout except airport pick ups where discounted taxis can be organised.
Available dates: 2019
May: 13th- 17th
June: 10th-14th
July: 8th- 12th
August: 12th- 16th
September:  9th- 13th
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