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GEOG 0085 - Application of Geospatial Technologies

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/geog-0085/

Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Hours: 18 lecture Description: Investigation of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) case studies used in industry and government; explores how industry uses GIS with emphasis on natural resource management and watershed analysis. Additional focus on remote sensing, aerial photography, GPS technology. (CSU) Units 1 Lecture-Discussion 18 Laboratory By Arrangement Contact Hours 18 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Research GIS case studies for any industry of choice, with focus on application to solve real-world problems. Distinguish between base map features and thematic map features for a particular application, such as watershed mapping. Compare and contrast different remote sensing products and applications, discussing advantages and disadvantages. Summarize the key elements of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) including aspects of proper set-up, positional accuracy, corrections methods, and output to mapping software. Course Content Outline I. Introduction to GIS Case Studies A. Government and Industry fields B. Explore use of GIS II. GIS and watershed analysis / Dry Creek Watershed example A. How to get layers B. Intro. to base maps C. Watershed analysis III. GIS Case Studies A. Find industry case study B. Compare and contrast student case studies IV. Elements of Remote Sensing A. Various products B. Aerial Photography Elements C. Putting Together the Analysis V. Investigating Uses of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) A. How the GPS works & Key Elements B. How to use the GPS units Course Objectives Course Objectives 1. Define GIS industry standard terms. 2. Conceptualize how GIS is used in various industries, for example, to manage a watershed's health so that anadromous fish (like salmon and steelhead trout) can maintain a viable population in the wild. The lecture example illustrates how the the Dry Creek Conservancy has built a working GIS, including an awareness of various GIS layers used and needed to construct and maintain. 3. Research GIS case studies for any industry of choice, producing an annotated bibliography. 4. Distinguish between base map and thematic layers using examples. 5. Research and organize a GIS case presentation. 6. Compare different remote sensing products, discussing advantages and disadvantages. 7. Identify key elements of Global Positioning Systems (GPS), including mapping systems, accuracy, and GPS case studies. Methods of Evaluation Classroom Discussions Objective Examinations Projects Reports Reading Assignments 1. Read and evaluate lecture notes and articles from the Internet to understand basic components of a base map. Look at a specific case study (a local watershed study, for example), then identify base map and thematic map components for this case study and be prepared to discuss in class. 2. Using the Internet to research GeoSpatial industries, such as agriculture, determine the purpose of the GIS effort, the list of challenges, the base and thematic map layers, and final outcome or product to help solve their problem and be prepared to discuss in class. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Create annotated bibliography of various GIS case studies of interest and present to class via the discussions, so that every can see your posting. 2. Using the Internet to research GeoSpatial industries, such as a watershed management, or industry of choice. Once you have done your reading research, then develop a PowerPoint type of presentation with lots of maps and pictures roughly 10 -20 slides in length. It should include: purpose, challenges, base and thematic layer, and some outcomes like maintaining the health of a watershed. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) 1. Publish presentation on discussion (via online) Methods of Instruction Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course. Access to Internet for reading and case study research.