Geographical Information Systems module (GE32012)

The world is changing rapidly. Information on location has never been more important to help assess, understand, manage, and plan for such changes. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are powerful systems for representing, analysing, and visualising location-based information. They are the cornerstone for a larger geospatial sector.

On this module you will explore how GIS can be applied to a range of problems and situations. This involves using leading-edge GIS software such as ArcGIS. You will also use a range of real-world datasets, particularly for Scotland/Great Britain.

You will learn a number of topics such as:

• how to create and integrate data from various sources
• GIS approaches to analysis and problem-solving
• how mapping and other visualisation and communication methods facilitate new insights

No prior knowledge of GIS is required for this module. The module is taught in parallel with a more advanced version (GE42010). The modules are differentiated by the assessments involved. Teaching and learning methods are the same.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• learn about fundamental GIS concepts, principles, and techniques
• work directly with industry-standard GIS software
• explore how to obtain and create GIS datasets from multiple different sources
• learn about a range of GIS applications, and career roles within GIS
• undertake your own GIS analysis, making decisions yourself on what data and techniques to use and on how to communicate results.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• understand key GIS concepts, principles, and terms
• show your ability to use a range of core GIS techniques
• apply your GIS knowledge and skills independently
• show judgement in appropriate and responsible use of GIS software and data

Assignments / assessment

• class test (40%)
• project report (60%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• weekly lectures
• practical exercises
• quizzes
• tutorials.

Indicative list of weekly topics:

1. Introduction to the module, ArcGIS Pro and GIS data available from the Digimap Ordnance Survey collection
2. Creating an ArcGIS geodatabase and performing a simple analysis
3. Creating and editing feature class data. Georeferencing and coordinate systems
4. Table joins for associating feature and attribute data. Choropleth mapping and designing map layouts
5. Raster data management and raster terrain surfaces and 3D visualization
6. Raster overlays and converting between raster and vector formats
7. Web GIS – exploring ArcGIS Online
8. (For remainder of semester) GIS project development