Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| GEOG1010 | Geography | 1 | 10 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- GEOG1010
- School
- Geography
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
The module provides students with the theoretical background and practical training to undertake basic spatial analysis within a contemporary Geographic Information System (GIS). It is built upon a structured set of paired theory lectures and practical sessions, supported by detailed theory topics delivered via Moodle, which contain linkages to associated textbook resources. It aims to ensure competency in the use of a contemporary GIS software package whilst developing transferable ICT skills. It also encourages students to develop the analytical skills necessary for the creation of workflows that utilise the built-in analytical functionality of a GIS to solve a spatial problem.
Specific topics covered are:
• What is GIS?
• Applications of GIS
• Spatial data models
• Fundamental spatial analysis
• Cartographic principles behind GIS
• Presenting and sharing the results of GIS analysis.
Target Students
Available to year 1 Geography students and Natural Sciences students on Geography pathways. Also available to Exchange students.
Classes
Teaching will take place through a mixture of lectures and computer-based practical sessions.
Assessment
- 100% Coursework: 1000 words
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
This module aims to develop a conceptual and practical understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as used to support spatial thinking and problem solving. It will also provide the theoretical and practical competency necessary to study GIS at a higher level. It aims to introduce the student to commercially available software, instruct students in the use of this software in applied GIS analysis scenarios and ensures a solid theoretical and conceptual foundation in GIS fundamental methods and analyses.Learning Outcomes
a. Knowledge and understanding
• Use a GIS competently to work with spatial information
• Identify and explain the options for sharing geospatial information within and between organizations and with the public
• Relate theory surrounding digital representation of spatial phenomena to practical analysis of spatial data
• Relate theory surrounding spatial analysis methodologies to applied spatial analysis tasks
b. Intellectual Skills
• Develop appropriate methodologies for GIS-based spatial analysis tasks
• Justify appropriate spatial analysis methodologies relevant to applications of GIS
c. Professional Practical Skills
• Import, integrate, manipulate, analyse and report spatial data using a contemporary GIS package
• Report and discuss methods, analysis techniques and results from GIS-based projects
d. Transferable Skills
• Undertake individual and team-based project work
• Plan effectively and organize work schedules
• Have experience of working to deadlines
• Apply general ICT skills to a specialist software environment.
Intellectual Skills
● Develop appropriate methodologies for GIS-based spatial analysis tasks
● Justify appropriate spatial analysis methodologies relevant to applications of GIS
c. Professional Practical Skills
● Import, integrate, manipulate, analyse and report spatial data using a contemporary GIS package
● Report and discuss methods, analysis techniques and results from GIS-based projects
d. Transferable Skills
● Undertake individual and team-based project work
● Plan effectively and organize work schedules
● Have experience of working to deadlines
● Apply general ICT skills to a specialist software environment.