%0 Research article
%T Effects of training for inexperienced surveyors on data quality of tree diameter and height measurements
%A Kitahara, Fumiaki
%A Mizoue, Nobuya
%A Yoshida, Shigejiro
%D 2010
%J Silva Fennica
%V 44
%N 4
%R doi:10.14214/sf.133
%U https://silvafennica.fi/article/133
%X Due to the large number of sample plots and variables to be measured,  inexperienced surveyors are expected to take field measurements in  National Forest Inventories (NFIs). However, very little information  exists on the data quality that can be expected from inexperienced  surveyors given different levels of training. We evaluated the quality  of data produced by inexperienced undergraduate students when measuring  the most fundamental variables: tree diameter using a diameter tape and  height using an ultrasonic Vertex III hypsometer. We found that a single  training session on how to use the instruments and how to reduce  measurement errors was insufficient for inexperienced surveyors to  achieve measurement quality objectives (MQOs). Providing a single  feedback of control team measurements significantly improved data  quality, except in the measurements of tree height of broad-leaved  trees, but additional feedback did not contribute to further  improvement. We propose that field training courses for inexperienced  surveyors incorporate a one-day exercise with feedback instruction.