Module Identifier GG32820  
Module Title GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS  
Academic Year 2007/2008  
Co-ordinator Professor Richard M Lucas  
Semester Semester 1  
Other staff Mr Peter Bunting, Dr Aled P Rowlands  
Course delivery Lecture   10 x 2 hours  
  Practical   5 x 2 hours  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Exam2 Hours  50%
Semester Assessment Coursework Laboratory-based report (2000 words) (35%). Presentation based on reading of current literature (15%)  50%
Supplementary Exam2 Hours  50%
Supplementary Assessment Resubmission of failed coursework components.  50%

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:
  1. Select and apply appropriate techniques for processing geographic data in various forms within a GIS
  2. Use commercial GIS and remote sensing software
  3. Integrate spatial geographical data from a range of sources for practical application
  4. Independently prepare and deliver a presentation based on information extracted from the current literature

Brief description

The module will provide an introduction to the concepts of GIS and practical experience in collecting, entering, manipulating, analyzing and interpreting spatial data.   Vocational training will be given in the collection of environmental (field) data and the use of commercial GIS (ArcMap) software. Students will review and present on current literature relating to a range of GIS applications.

Content

Lectures (10)

Laboratories (5)

Module Skills

Problem solving Computer-based analysis of GIS data  
Research skills Field data collection, computer-based learning of GIS skills  
Communication Presentation of maps and formal seminar presentation.  
Improving own Learning and Performance Completion of comprehensive GIS laboratories and reading of literature.  
Team work Collection of field data  
Information Technology Use of computers and both GIS and remote sensing software  
Application of Number Use of mathematics in computer-based programming  
Personal Development and Career planning Knowledge of careers in GIS  
Subject Specific Skills Specialist skills in GIS analysis  

Reading Lists

Books
** Recommended Text
Burrough, P.A. & McDonnell, R.A. (1998) Principles of Geographical Information Systems Oxford University Press
Dent, B.D. (1999) Cartography: Thematic Map Design. 5th. WCB McGraw-Hill, Boston
Martin, D. (1996) Geographic Information Systems Routledge, London

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6