Postgraduate Course: Principles of Geographical Information Science (Block1) (PGGE11067)
Course Outline
| School | School of Geosciences |
College | College of Science and Engineering |
| Credit level (Normal year taken) | SCQF Level 11 (Postgraduate) |
Availability | Available to all students |
| SCQF Credits | 10 |
ECTS Credits | 5 |
| Summary | This course provides an essential background for students with limited knowledge of Geographic Information Science and as a foundation for other courses. The module begins by tracing the origins and recent rapid development of GIS and outlines linkages with other related technologies. 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 and analysing 3D, terrain data. Basic elements of graphic design and communication are reviewed to ensure that output from GIS is comprehensible and effective. |
| Course description |
Not entered
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Entry Requirements (not applicable to Visiting Students)
| Pre-requisites |
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Co-requisites | |
| Prohibited Combinations | |
Other requirements | None |
Information for Visiting Students
| Pre-requisites | None |
Course Delivery Information
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| Academic year 2014/15, Available to all students (SV1)
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Quota: 22 |
| Course Start |
Block 1 (Sem 1) |
Timetable |
Timetable |
| Learning and Teaching activities (Further Info) |
Total Hours:
100
(
Lecture Hours 12,
Seminar/Tutorial Hours 12,
Programme Level Learning and Teaching Hours 2,
Directed Learning and Independent Learning Hours
74 )
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| Assessment (Further Info) |
Written Exam
50 %,
Coursework
50 %,
Practical Exam
0 %
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| Additional Information (Assessment) |
Computer-based GIS project 50%
Exam 50% (one hour; answer one essay question from a choice of four)
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| Feedback |
Not entered |
| Exam Information |
| Exam Diet |
Paper Name |
Hours & Minutes |
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| Main Exam Diet S1 (December) | Principles of Geographical Information Science (Block1) | 1:00 | |
Learning Outcomes
- understand the components and range of methods which make up a geographical information systems and the field of geographical information science including an appreciation of the history and development of this field;
- understand the importance of data modelling in the storage of geographical data within the database;
- understand 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;
- apply appropriate cartographic principles in the construction of maps (including appreciation of map projections);
- develop an integrated practical project, drawing on appropriate source data, providing sensible analysis, output and drawing appropriate conclusions.
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Reading List
Heywood, I., Cornelius, S. and Carver, S. (2011) An Introduction to Geographical Information Systems. Prentice Hall, Fourth Edition.
Longley P A, Goodchild M F, Maguire D J and Rhind D W (eds) (2010) Geographical Information Systems and Science. Chichester: Wiley. 3rd Edition.
Burrough P A and McDonnell R A (1998) Principles of Geographical Information Systems for Land Resources Assessment. Oxford: Clarendon. Chapters 1-3.
de Smith, M Goodchild M F Longley P A 2009 Geospatial Analysis A Comprehensive Guide to Principles Techniques and Software tools. Third edition
Stillwell, J., Clarke, G. 2003 Applied GIS and Spatial Analysis (edited volume) John Wiley
Longley, P.A., Batty, M. 2003 Advanced Spatial Analysis: The CASA Book of GIS
Periodicals: International Journal of Geographical Information Science, Computers, Environment and Urban Systems, Transactions in GIS
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Contacts
| Course organiser | Dr William Mackaness
Tel: (0131 6)50 8163
Email: William.Mackaness@ed.ac.uk |
Course secretary | Miss Lynne Mcgillivray
Tel: (0131 6)50 2543
Email: Lynne.McGillivray@ed.ac.uk |
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