Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2020 - GEOG 251 D100

Quantitative Geography (3)

Class Number: 4086

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 9, 2020
    Wed, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    GEOG 100 or 111.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to basic quantitative techniques for the collection of geographic data. Topics include describing data, gathering samples, theoretical distributions, linking samples and populations, testing significance, and exploring spatial relationships all within practical, real-world application contexts. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

Course Description:
An introduction to basic quantitative techniques for the collection of geographic data. Topics include describing data, gathering samples, theoretical distributions, linking samples and populations, testing significance, and exploring spatial relationships all within practical, real-world application contexts. Examples will be taken from physical and human geography as well as other related subject areas. Computers and data analysis software will be used

Course Content:
Only basic statistics knowledge is assumed. Each topic begins with an introduction, and developed to a level needed for the course. Topics will be taken from: Defining quantitative geography; exploratory data analysis; univariate data analysis; exploring categorical data; writing and presenting statistics; spatial data analysis; time series analysis; data visualization; map-based data analysis; data collection methods; elements of chance; from population to samples; from samples to population; bivariate data relationships; and multivariable data relationships.

Course Organization:
There will be one key lecture per week. The lectures will be primarily asynchronous. Students will learn about and practice geographic analysis techniques through the lectures, computer labs, individual assignments, and analysis of data. Data analysis software will be used to process real world data from multiple sources. The textbook readings will enhance understanding of the materials presented in the lectures.

There will be one key computer lab per week. The computer labs will be primarily asynchronous. Sample data sets and software analysis will reinforce the theoretical concepts and methods from the lectures. These labs will allow students to apply the quantitative methods to a variety of data and problem contexts within geography.

Format: Remote delivery. The course begins in the first week of the term.

Notes:
This course may be applied towards the SIS Certificate Program or the Certificate in Liberal Arts.
The contents are subject to minor changes depending on the number of students and available resources.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
- Explain and practically apply quantitative geography concepts
- Critically evaluate quantitative methods and real-world applications
- Demonstrate competence in using software tools for data analysis
- Creatively design and implement quantitative analysis projects for problem solving

Grading

  • Participation 5%
  • Quiz 5%
  • Assignment 35%
  • Mini-Project 20%
  • Final Exam (synchronous) 35%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Textbook and Software:
- None. The software and required reading materials will be made available to you during the course.

Requirements for Remote Learning:
Modern Windows or Mac computer, video camera, microphone, keyboard, mouse, reliable internet connection.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2020

Teaching at SFU in fall 2020 will be conducted primarily through remote methods. There will be in-person course components in a few exceptional cases where this is fundamental to the educational goals of the course. Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).