Module Information

Module Identifier
GS23710
Module Title
Geographical Information Systems
Academic Year
2025/2026
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 2
Reading List
Other Staff

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment ​​Written report  presenting computer based data analysis. (1500 words + Analysis Diagram and Flowchart)  100%
Supplementary Assessment Written report  presenting of computer based data analysis​​. 1500 words + Analysis Diagram and Flowchart (Resubmisstion of failed component)  100%

Learning Outcomes

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

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

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

3. Use GIS software.

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

5. 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 geographical and environmental data analysis and has application within a broad range of careers and 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 in their following areas:

- Inputting and digitising data
- Mapping and visualisation of spatial data
- Manipulation of vector and raster datasets

Geo-referencing, coordinate systems and map projections​

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 Write up of computer based data analysis for the assignment providing details on the methods used and results of the analysis.
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 5