Course Description
Introduction to principles and applications of Geographic Information Science (GIS). Examines spatial data retrieval, accuracy, management, visualization, and analysis. Emphasis on interdisciplinary nature of GIS and relevance to society. Involves computer examples and exercises that emphasize real-world problem solving.
Athena Title
INTRO GIS
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in GEOG 4370/6370-4370L/6370L
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall and spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Successful completion of the GEOG 2011 (Introduction to Geographic Information Systems) course will provide the following learning outcomes for Quantitative Reasoning: An understanding of basic concepts and theories in GIScience, especially focused on geographic information system (GIS) concepts of spatial data display, management, retrieval and analysis An appreciation of the societal and environmental benefits of geospatial technologies and analysis, as well as concerns for privacy and proper use of the technology An awareness of scale, coordinate systems, geometric accuracy and thematic content relative to images, maps and locational point data that are input to GIS databases An ability to think spatially including: 1) knowing about space in two and three dimensions; 2) representing space in a GIS database, maps and geovisualizations; and 3) spatial reasoning such as proximity, shortest distance and area covered to solve problems. A greater cognizance of the importance of spatial data and geospatial tools such as GIS, GPS and remote sensing in our daily lives and their crucial role in monitoring environmental change, assessing human impacts and influencing policy decision-making. This course meets the following General Education Abilities by accomplishing the specific learning objectives listed below: Communicate effectively through writing: Assimilate, analyze, and present in written forms, a body of information Interpret content of written materials on related topics from various disciplines Produce writing that is stylistically appropriate and mature Communicate effectively through speech: Assimilate, analyze, and present in oral forms, a body of information Communicate in various modes and media, including the proper use of appropriate technology Communicate for academic and professional contexts This course meets the following General Education Abilities by accomplishing the specific learning objectives listed below: Communicate effectively through writing. This is met by a series of writing assignments associated with laboratory exercises. Communicate effectively through speech. This is met by oral presentations, discussion leading, and classroom participation. Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration, student-faculty electronic interaction, data analysis activities, and laboratory assignments. Students are introduced to basics of GIS software usage. Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this class, and includes the following elements, which are accomplished through laboratory activities and assignments, lecture, classroom discussion, and inquiry-based learning efforts: Consider and engage opposing points of view Support a consistent purpose and point of view Assimilate, analyze, and present a body of information Analyze arguments
Topical Outline
Week Topics Covered 1 Introduction to GIS data and systems 2 Spatial Concepts I 3 Spatial Concepts II: Map Projections 4 Digital Mapping: Raster vs. Vector 5 Getting GIS Data 6 Creating GIS Data 7 Manipulation of GIS Data 8 The GIS Database I 9 The GIS Database II 10 Spatial Analysis I 11 Spatial Analysis II 12 The Global Positioning System 13 Projects
General Education Core
CORE III: Quantitative ReasoningSyllabus