PAM Software Basics
Online Training in Marine Mammal Bioacoustic Software
Flexible training to support your goals of learning to use industry leading software used for passive acoustic monitoring of marine mammals.
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PAM Software Basics is an online technical training course focused on building foundational skills in two key software programs used for passive acoustic monitoring of marine mammals. Raven Lite, developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, is the go-to tool for acoustic data visualization, measurement, and annotation. PAMGuard, widely recognized as the industry standard, is used in real-time and offline monitoring applications, offering advanced capabilities for detection, classification, and localization of marine mammal vocalizations.
Through this course, participants step through the core features of each program using a combination of instructional videos and guided activities. Software is installed on your local machine and data and/or activity instructions are downloaded for each module. This training is intended for individuals who are new to bioacoustics and/or new to these software tools. With approximately 30 hours of asynchronous content, learners will build confidence in navigating both programs and applying them to real-world acoustic datasets.
Course materials are completed at your own pace during an assigned training session, which includes 30 days of access to all instructional content and personalized email feedback on submitted activities from an experienced instructor. A training session refers to the one-month window in which a participant has access to the course and instructor support. While the course is self-paced, space is limited to allow for timely and individualized feedback.
Participants may use either a Mac or PC computer with at least 8 GB of RAM to complete the course. To browse or register for an upcoming training session, please visit the Store for available options.
IMarEST Accredited
The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) is an international society for marine professionals. IMarEST provides a peer-reviewed assessment of courses to ensure effective delivery of rigorous technical content. PAM Software Basics is recognized as an accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course.
Learn More About IMarEST CPD
Frequently Asked Questions
Both Raven and PAMGuard are open-access programs and free to download. However you will need to have access to a computer with administrative privileges to download and install software. Recently, PAMGuard increased support for for Mac users, we can now support training on either a personal Mac or PC. However, if issues related to the Mac operating system arise, coordination with PAMGuard support is required. Additionally, you will need reliable internet access for the duration of the course in order to view videos and submit coursework.
Training groups are limited in capacity due to the support provided during the course. However, you can join a training group at any time during the indicated month and still have the same period of access (30 days). For example, if you join the course on April 10, you will have access until through May 9th.
That is up to you! There is approximately 30 hours worth of training materials, but individuals work at different paces depending on their familiarity with software and comfort level with computers. The 30 days of access is intended to allow you to work at your own pace.
If a scenario arises where you are in need of more time, we are happy to work with you to help you meet you goal of completing the training. The best approach is to contact us if you encounter an issue!
A certificate is provided upon completion of all module activities. PAM Software Basics is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology as a continuing professional development course, which is indicated on our certificates.
Testimonials
I feel much more comfortable interpreting data now and using the software. Elizabeth was a great instructor and very quick at answering my questions and responding to the completion of training modules. Thanks Liz!
- Environmental Scientist, Canada
I would say this was the best online course I've ever taken. I'd say that Liz is an awesome teacher, she makes herself available to her students and is very prompt in her replies. This course was very thorough for a basics level course! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!!!
- PSO/PAM Operator, United States
Highly recommended course for the beginners, Have plenty time to explore the software and do it perfectly. Instructor Liz, very perfect keenly observing the activity and giving valuable suggestions. Thanks to the OSA TEAM.
- Marine Fauna Observer/Marine Biologist, U.A.E.
Liz’s course with its straight forward and concise guidance in addition to its thorough exercises not only prepared me for an entry role into PAM, but as well instilled a greater sense of wonder over the world of acoustics.
- Bioacoustician & PSO
Customized Group Course
PAM Software Basics can be organized to fit a virtual group setting - link below to find out more information and complete the group interest form