GEOG 0090. Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Units: 4
Hours: 72 lecture
Study of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and its applications to spatial data management. Focus on project design, data acquisition, database management, geographic analysis, and map design. Explores how GIS solves spatial problems, such as those in natural resources, earth and life sciences, environmental planning, local government, business, transportation, and other related fields. (C-ID GEOG 155) (CSU, UC)
GEOG 0090 - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/geog-0090/
Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Hours: 72 lecture Description: Study of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and its applications to spatial data management. Focus on project design, data acquisition, database management, geographic analysis, and map design. Explores how GIS solves spatial problems, such as those in natural resources, earth and life sciences, environmental planning, local government, business, transportation, and other related fields. (C-ID GEOG 155) (CSU, UC) Units 4 Lecture-Discussion 72 Laboratory By Arrangement Contact Hours 72 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Identify appropriate ways to map geographic features, whether using vector or raster methods. Compare and contrast different geographic coordinate systems, map projections and datums used in GIS. Evaluate effective map design based on cartographic principles and use of scale. Convert and incorporate GPS data, CAD data, other databases or tables into the GIS using software techniques. Develop metadata as part of data dictionary; explain attributes and value codes. Course Content Outline I. Fundamental Concepts in Geographic Information Systems A) Definition of GIS B) Vector and raster systems C) Scale and resolution D) Map projections and coordinate systems E) Applications of GIS F) Basics of cartographic design II. GIS Data Sources A) Identify sources of GIS data B) Metadata C) Georeferencing and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) D) Converting digital data to a uniform projection and scale III. Designing and Implementing a GIS A) User needs assessment B) Database design and management C) Fundamentals of data storage D) Database management E) Input of data with GPS F) Digitizing, editing and output IV. Project Design A) Case studies B) Goals and objectives C) Scope and Scale D) Problem statement / flowcharts E) Research questions V. Organizing Data A) File management B) Data relationships C) Creating classes and subcategories D) ArcCatalog & Metadata VI. Geodatabases A) Create new geodatabase B) Modify geodatabase C) Other databases D) Join Tables E) Aggregate data F) Export data G) Define topology VII. Importing Spatial and Attribute Data A) Sources of maps and data B) Vector spatial data C) Working with CAD data D) Working with GPS data E) Convert data F) Projections Course Objectives Course Objectives 1. Identify ways to represent geographic features as raster or vector (point, line, or polygon; evaluate the capabilities of various GIS software programs; identify data sources and appropriate formats). 2. Compare and contrast maps, then be able to integrate different geographic coordinate systems, map projections and datums into GIS. 3. Evaluate effective map design, sorting, symbolization, color scheme and apply cartographic principles of scale. 4. Examine the relationship between geographic features and attribute tables as related to GIS queries. 5. Incorporate GPS data, field data (e.g., survey forms), CAD data and other stand-alone databases into the GIS. 6. Develop metadata, including a data dictionary to explain attribute codes, meeting metadata protocol standards and guidelines, using appropriate software, such as ArcCatalog. 7. Discriminate between different attributes types, such as qualitative and quantitative data types. 8. Perform basic spatial overlay and GIS analysis using case studies. 9. Demonstrate the process of converting analogue data to digital data for use in a GIS. 10. Design a flow chart for a research project, including statements of purpose, process and ultimate product. 11. Create and modify a "geodatabase" using appropriate tools, such as ArcCatalog. 12. Conduct a comprehensive data search to select most suitable data sources. 13. Convert and integrate existing data into correct projection / datum of imagery source. 14. Import and integrate CAD (cadastral) data. 15. Collect field data with GPS units; then integrate into GIS. Methods of Evaluation Objective Examinations Problem Solving Examinations Reading Assignments 1. Read "What is GIS?" and "What are people doing with GIS?" (case studies illustrating applications of GIS). Read about typical GIS software operations and symbolization, focusing on the relationship between maps and attribute tables and be prepared to discuss in class. 2. Read about adding and symbolizing GIS layers in your exercise book as well as read an in-class assignment that mirrors these concepts and techniques and be prepared to discuss in class. 3. Research how to create Geodatabases using ArcCatalog; then read about how to rename features, copy and delete feature layers, and modify attribute tables associated with new Geodatabase and be prepared to discuss in class. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Transfer concepts and perform software operations learned from the software tutorial book to similar concepts and software operations using real-world data (e.g., managing scale thresholds using different GIS data.) 2. Write a brief overview on how to conceptualize a GIS project (for a natural resources agency, for example) taking into consideration specific tasks and problems you are trying to solve, what GIS layers you should develop, and how to structure the database to best work with the GIS software. 3. Create Geodatabases using ArcCatalog; rename features, copy and delete feature layers, and modify attribute tables. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) Plan, evaluate and execute a GIS project 1. Identify a problem of a geospatial nature 2. Outline a strategy to solve the problem 3. Locate relevant data sources 4. Design and evaluate a plan to acquire the relevant data sources 5. Incorporate data sources into a Geographic Information System (GIS) 6. Apply principles of spatial analysis with results Methods of Instruction Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.
Course Identification Numbering System (C-ID)
...GEOG 0005 GEOG 130 GEOG 0004 GEOG 140 GEOG 0003 GEOG 155 GEOG 0090 GEOG...
