Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2023 - GEOG 251 D100

Quantitative Geography (3)

Class Number: 3620

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 6 – Dec 5, 2023: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 17, 2023
    Sun, 3:30–5:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Shivanand Balram
    sbalram1@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-2003
    Office: RBC 6143
    Office Hours: TBD

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. Only basic statistical 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. 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 Organization:
There will be one 2-hours lecture per week. The lectures will be done in-person in the classroom. 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 2-hours lab session per week. The labs will be done in-person in the GIS computer laboratory. 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:
In-Person delivery for both the lectures and computer labs. The course begins in the first week of the term.

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

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 2%
  • Quizzes 10%
  • Assignments 40%
  • Midterm Exam 18%
  • Final Exam 30%

NOTES:

The final marks are absolute and NOT scaled or assigned based on a curve.

REQUIREMENTS:

Requirements for In-Person Learning:
- For work outside the computer laboratory: Modern Windows or Mac computer and reliable internet connection.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

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

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.