Undergraduate Course: Principles of Geographical Information Science (GEGR10039)
Course Outline
| School | School of Geosciences |
College | College of Science and Engineering |
| Course type | Standard |
Availability | Available to all students |
| Credit level (Normal year taken) | SCQF Level 10 (Year 3 Undergraduate) |
Credits | 20 |
| Home subject area | Geography |
Other subject area | None |
| Course website |
http://www.geos.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/geography/Honours/U00403/ |
Taught in Gaelic? | No |
| Course description | This module provides an essential background for students with limited knowledge of the field and a foundation for other modules. The module begins by tracing the origins and recent rapid development of GIS and outlines the basic differences between GIS and related technologies of digital mapping, CAD and DBMS. Principles covered include co-ordinate reference systems, map projections and the different models that GIS employ to represent real-world entities. Also considered are the effects that these models and the analytical functionality of systems have on the information that can be derived. Vector and raster data models are explained and there is an introduction to representing 3D and temporal phenomena. Basic elements of graphic design and communication are reviewed to ensure that output from GIS is comprehensible and effective. The module concludes by addressing the wider social and economic factors that influence the success or failure of GIS in an institution.
A series of associated practicals reinforce lecture material and provide a practical hands-on introduction tailored for new users of GIS. |
Information for Visiting Students
| Pre-requisites | None |
| Displayed in Visiting Students Prospectus? | Yes |
Course Delivery Information
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| Delivery period: 2012/13 Semester 1, Available to all students (SV1)
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WebCT enabled: Yes |
Quota: 29 |
| Location |
Activity |
Description |
Weeks |
Monday |
Tuesday |
Wednesday |
Thursday |
Friday |
| Central | Lecture | | 1-11 | | | | 14:00 - 15:50 | |
| First Class |
First class information not currently available |
| Additional information |
2 hour(s) per week for 5 week(s). |
| Exam Information |
| Exam Diet |
Paper Name |
Hours:Minutes |
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| Main Exam Diet S1 (December) | Principles of Geographical Information Science | 2:00 | | |
Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module, students should have an integrated knowledge of the principal areas of Geographical Information Science, including the main boundaries and terminologies used. They should also be able to achieve and demonstrate the ability to:
- Understand the components and a range of the methods which make up geographical information systems and the field of geographical information science, including an appreciation of the history and development of this field
- Critically understand the importance of data modelling in the storage of geographical data within the database and how spatial data are acquired
- Appreciate the functionality of the ArcGIS software, including basic expertise in analysis, classification, query and integration of vector and raster data and visualisation and how to use ArcGIS to set and achieve goals
- Apply appropriate cartographic principles in the construction of maps (including an appreciation of map projections)
- Develop an integrated practical project, drawing on appropriate source data, providing meaningful analysis, effective visualisation of output and drawing appropriate conclusions which demonstrate professional level insight.
- Critically review and consolidate the knowledge of GIS gained as part of this course in order to solve complex spatial problems. |
Assessment Information
Class assessment: Essay; Design Document
Degree assessment: One two-hour examination (2 questions) 60%; One computer-based GIS project (2000 words) 40%
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Special Arrangements
| None |
Additional Information
| Academic description |
Not entered |
| Syllabus |
Not entered |
| Transferable skills |
Not entered |
| Reading list |
Not entered |
| Study Abroad |
Not entered |
| Study Pattern |
Not entered |
| Keywords | GEGR10039 |
Contacts
| Course organiser | Dr William Mackaness
Tel: (0131 6)50 8163
Email: |
Course secretary | Mrs Catherine Campbell
Tel: (0131 6)50 9847
Email: |
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