Undergraduate Course: Principles of Geographical Information Science (GEGR10137)
Course Outline
| School | School of Geosciences |
College | College of Science and Engineering |
| Credit level (Normal year taken) | SCQF Level 10 (Year 3 Undergraduate) |
Availability | Available to all students |
| SCQF Credits | 20 |
ECTS Credits | 10 |
| Summary | This course provides an essential background for students with limited knowledge of Geographic Information Science and as a foundation for other courses. More broadly, the course seeks to develop student's transferable skills, to develop practical techniques in geographical information science, and to provide training in critical analysis and in written presentation combining results from quantitative analysis. |
| Course description |
Principles covered include co-ordinate reference systems, map projections and the different models that GIS employ to represent real-world entities through the use of both vector and raster modelling. Also considered are the effects that these models and the analytical functionality of systems have on the type of information produced. Vector and raster data models are explained and there is an introduction to representing and analysing 3D, terrain based data. Various case studies are used to highlight various types of analysis typically performed using GIS. Basic elements of graphic design and communication are reviewed to ensure that output from GIS is comprehensible and effective. The course examines the importance of data quality in spatial decision making. The lectures are complimented by a series of computer based practicals in which a series of hands on exercises enable students to gain first hand practical knowledge of how to use a GIS.
No prior knowledge of GIS is expected or required for this course though it is expected that you have good levels of numeracy and a logical mind. A familiarity with spreadsheets or basic programming skills will prove useful but is not mandatory. Engagement with the course text will be essential: Heywood DI, Cornelius S, Carver S 2011. An introduction to geographical information systems 4th ed (ebook or softback).
Fieldwork associated with the MSc in GIS means there is no teaching in Week 6. This provides a window of opportunity to catch up and complete assignments.
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Entry Requirements (not applicable to Visiting Students)
| Pre-requisites |
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Co-requisites | |
| Prohibited Combinations | |
Other requirements | This course is open to 3rd and 4th year students. This course is open to all university students, but priority will be given to students on the Geography Degree Programmes. Students from other programmes may be able to join if there is space. Please contact geoset.ug.drummond@ed.ac.uk to check availability. |
Information for Visiting Students
| Pre-requisites | None |
| High Demand Course? |
Yes |
Course Delivery Information
| Not being delivered |
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Understand the components of geographical information systems and be able to implement a range of the specialised methods in the field of geographical information science.
- Evaluate the utility for solving a given problem, of the multifarious data sources commonly used in GIS, and critically understand the importance of data modelling in the storage of such data.
- Create information to support decision making, by applying the functionality of the ArcGIS software, including basic expertise in analysis, classification, query and integration of vector and raster data and its visualisation.
- Apply appropriate cartographic principles in the construction of maps for given audiences.
- 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 of insight.
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Reading List
Class Text:
1. Heywood, I., Cornelius, S. and Carver, S. (2011) An Introduction to Geographical Information Systems. Prentice Hall, Fourth Edition.
A Supplementary Start Point for the Course:
2. Schmandt, M. GIS Commons: An introductory textbook on Geographic Information Systems
3. Free web enabled resource: http://giscommons.org/
Textbooks Complimentary to the Class Text:
1. de Smith, M Goodchild M F Longley P A 2015 Geospatial Analysis A Comprehensive Guide to Principles Techniques and Software tools. Third edition
free web enabled resource: http://www.spatialanalysisonline.com/index.html
2. Burrough P A, McDonnell R A & Lloyd C.D. (2015) Principles of Geographical Information Systems for Land Resources Assessment. Oxford: Clarendon. Third Edition.
3. Longley P A, Goodchild M F, Maguire D J and Rhind D W (eds) (2010) Geographical Information Systems and Science. Chichester: Wiley. 3rd Edition.
4. Stillwell, J., Clarke, G. 2003 Applied GIS and Spatial Analysis (edited volume) John Wiley
5. Longley, P.A., Batty, M. 2003 Advanced Spatial Analysis: The CASA Book of GIS
6. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/16752/
Periodicals:
1. JOSIS, http://www.josis.org/
2. International Journal of Geographical Information Science, http://www.tandfonline.com/
3. Computers, Environment and Urban Systems (CEUS),
4. www.journals.elsevier.com/computers-environment-and-urban-systems
5. Transactions in GIS, http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/
6. Cartography and GIS http://www.cartogis.org/ |
Additional Information
| Graduate Attributes and Skills |
Not entered |
| Special Arrangements |
This course is open to 3rd and 4th year students. This course is open to all university students, but priority will be given to students on the Geography Degree Programmes. Students from other programmes may be able to join if there is space. Please contact geoset.ug.drummond@ed.ac.uk to check availability. |
| Keywords | Not entered |
Contacts
| Course organiser | Dr Neil Stuart
Tel: (0131 6)50 2549
Email: N.Stuart@ed.ac.uk |
Course secretary | Miss Leigh Corstorphine
Tel: (0131 6)50 9847
Email: lcorstor@ed.ac.uk |
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