Wahaj Habib

Teaching Assistant - Free and Open-Source Software for Geospatial Analysis

Postgraduate Teaching, Asian Institute of Technology, 2018

Served as a Teaching Assistant for the Free and Open-Source Software for Geospatial Analysis (FOSS4G) module, supporting postgraduate students in learning open-source GIS technologies and methodologies.

Laboratory Support

  • Delivered comprehensive lab support for postgraduate students
  • Facilitated hands-on learning sessions with open-source geospatial software
  • Guided students through practical exercises and mini capstone projects

Software Training

  • QGIS: Advanced spatial analysis and cartographic design
  • GRASS GIS: Raster and vector data processing and analysis
  • PostGIS: Spatial database management and querying
  • R Spatial: Statistical analysis and spatial data science
  • GDAL/OGR: Geospatial data processing and transformation

Student Support

  • Provided one-on-one guidance for project troubleshooting
  • Supported student learning outcomes across diverse spatial data processing tasks
  • Mentored students in developing practical geospatial solutions
  • Assisted with capstone project development and implementation

Key Learning Outcomes

Students gained proficiency in:

  • Open-source GIS workflow development
  • Spatial data processing and analysis techniques
  • Integration of multiple FOSS4G tools for complex projects
  • Cost-effective alternatives to proprietary GIS software
  • Collaborative and reproducible geospatial research methods

Educational Impact

This teaching experience reinforced my commitment to democratising access to geospatial technology through open-source solutions. By training students in FOSS4G tools, we equipped them with versatile, accessible technologies that could be applied in resource-constrained environments throughout their careers.

Professional Development

This role enhanced my:

  • Technical Communication Skills: Explaining complex concepts clearly to diverse audiences
  • Software Proficiency: Deepened expertise in open-source geospatial technologies
  • Educational Methodology: Understanding of effective practical learning approaches
  • Cultural Competency: Working with international students from across Asia and beyond