Online training course

Yesterday, RRC held our first online training course! Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, we have been unable to offer our usual series of training courses in person. We have been busy developing ways to offer the same experience online, including virtual site visits and smaller group work. We delivered the Introduction to Hydromorphology (Level 1) training course using Zoom software.15 delegates joined us on the Zoom call, which offered the opportunity to share presentations on the screen and demonstrate hydromorphological processes virtually. Polls were set up to ask the delegates questions, and create as much of an interactive session as possible.

Marc Naura, RRC Science and Technical Manager, presented the material, and introduced the delegates to how you analyse the catchment so you can figure out how to restore the processes, which is the basis to hydromorphology and river processes. Marc introduced the group to forms, processes, drivers and features, before splitting the group into pairs to complete tasks using Google Earth online, 360⁰ photos, and historic maps.

Working in pairs, delegates worked through tasks to spot features and modifications, think about processes, and map pressures. Finally, delegates were asked to assess everything we had gone over in the training and offer justified restoration options. This was a great opportunity to go over all the concepts we had been introduced to, and brain storm ideas.

Feedback from the course has been really positive, with delegates appreciating the difficulties of a virtual training and site visit, but enjoying working in smaller groups and viewing a site through Google Earth online. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate online resources and how much value you can get from looking at data and maps online.

RRC are planning to run this course and other courses virtually this summer. Please email us rrc@therrc.co.uk if you are interested in attending a virtual training course.

Feedback from participants:

What was the most useful thing you learnt and how will you be using it?

"Knowing about erosional vs depositional systems and the role of energy will help me in understanding what one of our sites is likely to look like in a few years."

"A better appreciation of looking at the zones in the river and how modifying its shape can influence which process will occur which can reduce localised pressures."

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training