The documentation and practical exercises for this module are all computer based. This means that it should be possible to use them as the core of a distance taught module, using the Internet as the main communication channel. Impact of information technology on rural surveying practice Rural surveying practice has been affected by developments in information technology in many of the same ways as any other business or profession. Word-processors, spreadsheets and accounting packages are in widespread use. Databases are used for handling client details, staff lists and job records.
Information is shared across networks and so forth.
Where surveying practice differs from many other professions is in its need to handle spatial data, e.g. maps, plans, land terriers and other types of cadastral records. An increasing number of undergraduate students at the Royal Agricultural College have considerable experience in using computers but there are still many who have little or none at all. In the first semester, a C ommunications Skills module, which is compulsory for all first year undergraduates, helps students achieve and demonstrate a basic level of computer skills. The ability to find and move computer files over a network and to use network resources such as scanners, printers and CD-ROM databases. It is recognised that some students will already possess many of these skills on arrival at the College.