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Principles and Environmental Applications of GIS


Course Description

Provides quantitative rigorous hands-on-exercises on the applications of geographic information system (GIS) techniques in geological and environmental sciences, especially used to solve pressing environmental water resource issues. Students will master image processing and spatial analysis techniques (e.g., image classifications, spatial interpolation, georeferencing). The course will cover the fundamentals of GIS with an emphasis geologic and hydrologic environmental problem solving for today's and future needs.

Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
The last few weeks will be spent on a group or individual project. Graduate students are encouraged to apply the gained expertise to their ongoing research. Preferably, this becomes a part of their thesis/dissertation research. A report and in- class presentation will be provided on the project detailing the objectives, location, data, analysis techniques, and findings. Graduate students will present their respective in- class projects utilizing GIS to the entire class at the end of the semester.


Athena Title

Environmental GIS


Non-Traditional Format

This courses is intended for both undergraduate and graduate students in Geology or related programs looking to enhance their knowledge and application of GIS.


Prerequisite

Permission of department


Semester Course Offered

Offered spring


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Student Learning Outcomes

  • Students will learn the fundamentals of geographic information systems (GIS) and numerical/spatial analysis techniques commonly used in the quantitative analysis of geological/environmental data sets. They will learn how to apply GIS techniques in geological and environmental science problem-solving.
  • Students will master image processing and spatial analytical techniques, including coordinate systems/projections, georeferencing, geologic mapping, GIS model development, image classifications, and spatial interpolation and calculations.
  • Students will master the applications of quantitative and spatial techniques using a GIS framework to resolve geologic and environmental problems of pressing concern for today and future resource management.

Topical Outline

  • What is GIS? Hands-on Quantitative Applications of GIS Introduction to Satellite Data
  • Coordinate Systems and Projections Data Types: Vector/Raster Spatial Data Interpolation and Calculations
  • Understanding, Managing, and Using Spatial Data and Models and Satellite-based Models (SWAT) for Targeted Analytical Prospects
  • ArcSWAT Development GIS Model Builder Projects Examples of Class Exercises: Basics of ArcGIS Working with Coordinate Systems/Projections in ArcGIS Real-World Application: Incorporating Field Data and Mapping into ArcGIS Geology and Hydrology of Egypt Real-World Application: Analysis and Application of the Flow Regime in Arid Environments Assessment and Mapping of Seismic Hazards for Egypt ArcGIS Hydrologic Models