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Reproducible topographic analysis

Grieve, Stuart W.D.; Clubb, Fiona J.; Mudd, Simon M.

Authors

Stuart W.D. Grieve

Simon M. Mudd



Contributors

Paolo Tarolli
Editor

Simon M. Mudd
Editor

Abstract

The ability to reproduce the results of an experiment is a fundamental component of the scientific method. However, precisely what is meant by the terms replicable and reproducible often varies between and within disciplines. Here, we present clear definitions of these two terms for geomorphic research and communicate the importance of performing reproducible analysis of remotely sensed topographic data. We argue that the reproducibility of an analysis is not a static, binary state but rather that there is a continuum from irreproducibility to replicability, with reproducibility falling between the two and that the aim of a researcher should be to get as close to reproducibility as possible, favoring a pragmatic rather than dogmatic approach. A brief review of the development of topographic analysis as a discipline is used to highlight the progress made in making topographic analysis more reproducible, and the challenges inherent within common working patterns. The chapter concludes with a series of recommendations on how best to achieve reproducible topographic analysis.

Citation

Grieve, S. W., Clubb, F. J., & Mudd, S. M. (2020). Reproducible topographic analysis. In P. Tarolli, & S. M. Mudd (Eds.), Remote sensing of geomorphology (339-367). Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-444-64177-9.00012-6

Online Publication Date Apr 16, 2020
Publication Date 2020
Deposit Date May 5, 2020
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Publisher Elsevier
Pages 339-367
Series Title Developments in earth surface processes
Series Number 20
Book Title Remote sensing of geomorphology.
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-444-64177-9.00012-6