SPA415 Principles of Geographic Information Systems (8)
CSU Discipline Area: Spatial Science (SPASC)
Duration: One session
Abstract:
This subject introduces students to, and provides a foundation in the use of geographic information systems (GIS). Students develop the basic theoretical, technical and analytical skills necessary to apply GIS to simple spatial problems. The subject contains a significant element of practical work in which students are encouraged to directly apply their theoretical knowledge. Attention is focussed on the operations of GIS and the application of GIS to simple spatial analysis. This subject forms a basis for further study in other modules.
+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations
| Session 1 | |
|---|---|
| Distance * | Wagga Wagga |
*This subject offering contains a residential school. Please view following information for further details.
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: SPA415
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.
Enrolment restrictions:
Students who have completed SPA115 cannot enrol in this subject
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
Be able to
- discuss and evaluate the various definitions of a GIS;
- apply the principle GIS components;
- demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental cartographic principles underlying GIS operation;
- discuss the nature and characteristics of spatial data and objects;
- identify and state differences between GIS data structures;
- identify and understand basic database structures and understand the role of the database management system (DBMS) in a GIS;
- undertake basic spatial analysis within a GIS;
- demonstrate an understanding of problems associated with GIS analysis, such as data accuracy and data transfer;
- identify a GIS as a decision support system.
Syllabus:
The subject will cover the following topics:
- Concepts, principles and components of a GIS;
- Cartographic principles in GIS operation;
- GIS data types and structures;
- Data acquisition and preprocessing;
- The DBMS and its management;
- GIS analysis and applications;
- The future of GIS.
Residential School
This subject contains a optional 2 day residential school.
There is a two day residential school for this subject. The residential school is optional for students with previous experience with GIS or with using ArcView.
The program for the residential school consists of both lectures and practical sessions and is loosely structured. The main aim of the residential school is to build confidence with the GIS software and prepare you for the major assignment.
Specialised Resources
Students are expected to be able to gain access for a significant amount of the session to an IBM PC or one of its many variants.
The information contained in the 2013 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 24 April 2013. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.