Research With GIS
G&ES 391
Erick Howenstine
Evenings Spring Terms
Graduate Credit: Possible*
Students in G&ES 391 learn to use the basic functions of a Geographic Information Systems by completing a series of assignments and, in the end, completing a research project of their own design. Geographic Information Systems combine maps with data and anaylsis, and are powerful tools used in many disciplines today. G&ES 391 primarily uses ArcGIS, but also incorporates some other GIS software and ancilliary programs.
In this course the following aspects of GIS are covered:
Manipulating spatial data
Students will create spatial layers a variety of ways. They will digitize paper maps using a tablet or digitizing board, import large spatial datasets from public sources, and they will create maps from tabular data, by linking address information to a layer of streets. They will also use a variety of map editing tools, and measure such things as distance and area.Manipulating attribute data
Attribute data refers to the information attached to the map parts. Students will import into the map information colleceted from external sources. They will transfer these attributes to other spatial layers. They will export data, compute summary statistics, calculate formulas, and perform a variety other functions on the table of information attached to the map.Analysis
Students will use map layers to perform analysis. They will learn to search by attribute, overlay or intersect layers, merge layers, create a buffer zone around layers, compute area and distance, determine crosstabs and other summary statistics. They will be able to study their spatial layers thoroughly.Reports and Display
The result of a GIS project often includes tabular reports, maps, annotation, databases, and printed images. Students will learn the tools to bring a project to its conclusion by exporting tables, summarizing results, and printing publishable maps. They will also learn to display their work in simple but effective web pages.*Graduate students may take 10 hours at the 300 level from selected courses. This is one of those courses.
G&ES 391 Syllabus
