Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - GEOG 352 D100

Spatial Analysis (4)

Class Number: 2260

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Suzana Dragicevic
    suzanad@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-4621
    Office Hours: TBA

  • Prerequisites:

    GEOG 251 or one of STAT 201, 203 (formerly 103), 205, or 270.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Advanced quantitative techniques for spatial analysis of geographic data and patterns. Topics include geostatistics, spatial interpolation, autocorrelation, kriging, and their use in geographic problem solving with spatial analysis software. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

In many decisions and observations in the real world, spatial analysis plays an important role. For example: we explore the map data to find the best route to get to the restaurant; we know about clusters of forest insect infestations close to our communities; car thefts tend to be concentrated in the core of the city; and we are concerned about the distribution of point-source industrial pollutants in our environment. In each of these, we mentally process observations in space and time to arrive at an understanding. But mental processing is inadequate for large volumes of data. We need to depend on spatial data analysis methods and GIS tools to support our planning and decision-making.

The course will be an integration of lectures and computer labs on various spatial analysis methods such as point pattern analysis, cluster analysis, spatial autocorrelation, as well as spatial interpolation, among others. Industry standard GIS software and real-world geospatial data will be used for laboratory assignments to complement and reinforce theoretical concepts from the lectures.

Format: In-Person delivery for both lectures and GIS computer labs. The course begins on January 8th.

Notes:

  • The assessment categories are subject to change on short notice depending on the number of students enrolled, available resources and any changing circumstances during the term.
  • This course may be applied towards the GIS Certificate Program and the GIS Minor.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

On successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of spatial analysis methods
  • Use GIS software for spatial data analysis and management
  • Apply spatial analysis methods to solve problems in geography and related disciplines
  • Pursue further advanced study in spatial analysis and modeling

Grading

  • assignments 50%
  • quizzes 20%
  • final exam 30%

REQUIREMENTS:

Requirements for In-Person Learning: The Esri ArcGIS Pro software will be made available for in-person use in the GIS Computer Lab during the course. For work outside the GIS computer laboratory, students can use a modern Windows computer and reliable internet connection to progress their work. Mac computers may not be fully compatible with the GIS software used.

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

Lembo, A.J. and McGrew, J.C. (2024). An Introduction to Statistical Problem Solving in Geography. 4th Edition. Waveland Press, Inc.

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

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term 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.