Overview

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Practical applications of geographic information techniques for analysis and problem-solving in multiple contexts. Breadth-Social Sci/Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

Delivery Method: Completely Online

Course Description:
Practical applications of geographic information techniques for analysis and problem-solving in multiple contexts. GIScience is a well-established and integrative discipline at the intersection of spatial data management, spatial analysis and statistics, geovisualization and remote sensing. GIScience allows analysts to understand spatial patterns and act on them by visualizing and analyzing events on the earth using computers and digital data. A wide range of events can be studied using GIScience including patterns of: human settlement, natural landscapes and geology, water flows, animal movement, retail store siting, voting and politics, urban land use, human health, and criminal activity.

This course will demonstrate how the various GIScience components contribute to a more complete understanding of real-world events and processes. Students will also obtain an understanding of how GIScience analysis can be extended to benefit research and policy in a multidisciplinary context.

Course Organization:
There will be one key lecture by video per week. Students will learn about and practice geographic analysis techniques through the formal video lectures, computer labs, and assignments. There will be an emphasis on independent hands-on and problem-based learning. Selected short readings will enhance and extend understanding of the materials presented in the video lectures, and facilitate more meaningful participation on the discussion boards. The lecture quizzes will be based on these videos and short readings.

There will be one key lab demonstration by video per week. The computer lab demonstration will use data sets and software analysis to reinforce the methods presented in the lectures. Based on these lab demonstrations students will be able to complete the graded lab assignments and mini-project. These labs will allow students to apply GIScience techniques to a variety of problem contexts, and provide the basis for further study in GIScience and other areas. The course software will be available online to students.

Format: Completely online. The course begins in the first week of the term.

Prerequisites: Access to any modern computer or tablet, and reliable internet connection is necessary.

Notes:
The contents are subject to minor changes depending on the number of students and available resources.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge about geographical information science concepts
- Obtain working competence in using software tools for problem-solving
- Conceptualize GIScience based solutions for a range of spatial problems

Grading

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING: