Module Information

Module Identifier
GG32820
Module Title
Geographical Information Systems
Academic Year
2017/2018
Co-ordinator
Dr Andy Hardy
Semester
Semester 1
Other Staff
 

Course Delivery

Delivery Type Delivery length / details
Lecture 6 x 2 Hour Lectures
Practical 9 x 2 Hour Practicals
 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment 2,500 word essay - based on computer-based data analysis  3500 word assignment based on the completed laboratories and fieldwork.  50%
Semester Exam 2 Hours   Written Exam (2 hours)  50%
Supplementary Assessment 2,500 word essay - based on computer-based data analysis  Resubmission of failed coursework  50%
Supplementary Exam 2 Hours   Written Exam (2 hours)  50%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

Describe and explain the underlying concepts of manipulating and representing spatial data

Select and apply appropriate techniques for the collection and processing of geographic spatial data in various forms within a GIS

Use GIS software.

Integrate spatial geographical data from a range of sources for practical applications

Critically evaluate the scientific methodologies of analysing geographic spatial data

Brief description

The module will provide an introduction and background to the concepts of geographical information systems (GIS) and practical experience in entering, manipulating, analysing and interpreting spatial data. Spatial data manipulation and analysis is becoming an ever more important component of environmental data analysis and has application within a broad range of industries. The module has a strong focus on the practical implementation of GIS and it is expected that following the completion of this module students will be comfortable using GIS software and manipulating spatial data, relevant for future careers in geographical disciplines.

Content

This module will cover a broad range of topics in GIS both in terms of theory and practice, specifically:

  • Mapping and visualisation of spatial data
  • Manipulation of vector datasets
  • Manipulation of raster datasets
  • Coordinate systems and map projections
  • Elevation models
  • Data input and digitising
  • Spatial data in the context “new” consumer technologies

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number Assignment and practical sessions require the manipulation numerical data.
Communication Presentation of data analysis results and interpretation through a written report
Improving own Learning and Performance The computer based practicals go alongside the assignment where the students are working and improving their data analysis week by week forming the basis for their assignment.
Information Technology The assignment is reliant on the application of GIS software to aid the interpretation of the geographic data.
Personal Development and Career planning Knowledge of careers in GIS is specifically covered,
Problem solving Computer-based interpretation of spatial and geographical environmental datasets
Research skills Review of up-to-date literature relating to the application environmental spatial data
Subject Specific Skills Specific skills in interpretation of spatial data analysis for environmental applications.
Team work It is expected that students will support each other during the practical sessions which helps to promote team working skills.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6