Module overview
This module is intended to provide foundational GIS skills for various Masters-levels programmes (such as the MSc in Applied GIS and Remote Sensing and MSc in Sustainability). It is intended to introduce Geographical Information Systems and Science to those with no prior experience and to consolidate the knowledge of those who have previously taken one or more introductory GIS modules. It provides the foundation for further studies in GIS at more advanced levels. The module is very applied in its nature, with a large component of hands-on practical work which is used to expand and reinforce material taught in lectures.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Problem solve.
- Demonstrate understanding of the practical implications of building up a geodatabase
- Justify selection of presentation techniques to achieve clear display of spatial data.
- Evaluate key concepts underpinning Geographical Information Science.
- Examine, manage, manipulate and display data using GIS technology.
- Evaluate conceptual models of spatial data.
- Know best practice for examining and managing data quality and uncertainty.
- Identify and discuss present and future developments in GIS.
- Conduct information processing (including IT skills): literature searches
- Discuss various ideas of what a Geographical Information System is and how it works.
- Know a range of techniques for interpolation and multi-criteria evaluation
- Retrieve, format, input, integrate and organise data from multiple sources in a GIS.
- Conduct data manipulation (including IT skills): analysis of data (especially spatial data), image analysis.
- Use GIS as a tool to perform standard spatial analysis of data.
- Communicate results clearly in visual and written form.
Syllabus
Introduction to the module and to core concepts in GIS
Principles of visualising geospatial data
Geographic referencing systems
Sources of geospatial data
Principles of GIS data storage
Analytical operations in GIS
Open data, open source, big data: trends and issues
Methods of interpolation
Uncertainty and accuracy assessment
Multiple Criteria Evaluation
GIS project management
Module summary
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
This module is delivered through a series of 1 hour lectures (incorporating class discussion) and linked 2-3 hour practicals. Practicals will be self-paced, with supervision, with materials provided online. Students will be expected to do considerable independent reading to supplement the taught sessions. Help sessions are scheduled to provide assistance for each of the assignments.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Teaching | 50 |
| Independent Study | 100 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Software requirements. Students will use ArcGIS and standard office software. ArcGIS is available on-campus or available through iSolutions for installation on students’ own PCs.
All online materials for this module are provided through Blackboard..
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Assignment | 50% |
| Assignment | 50% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework assignment(s) | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External