About this class

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire

Department of Geography and Antropology

GEOG 335 - Geographic Information Systems I
GEOG 337 - Geographic Information Systems II

Fall 2012 / Spring 2013

Instructor: Dr. Christina Hupy

Geographic Information Systems I:

This course provides an introduction to both the theoretical and applied aspects of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The goal of this course is to provide you with an introduction to the tools you need to access, manipulate, and display geospatial data. GIS software will be utilized in a wide variety of applications. Topics will include: data representation, basic database structure and organization, basics of vector analysis, and the basics of GPS. This course is the foundation for Geog 337 which will be offered every fall semester. Geog 335 is required in the Geography Major and is a core course in the Geospatial Certificate offerings.

Course Outcomes:

• To gain a basic and practical understanding of GIS concepts, techniques (tools), and applications.
• Learn how GIS fits into the discipline of Geography and others.
• Learn how to solve spatial problems using GIS as a tool.
• Gain practical experience using the latest GIS software.
• Understand GIS career options and how to pursue them.

Geographic Information Systems II:

The goals of this course are to learn additional concepts and technical skills that build directly on the knowledge gained in Geographic Information Systems I, and to apply this knowledge to address real-world problems. The following topics will be covered: data models, applied topology, data sources, data interoperability, geocoding, advanced vector analysis, network analysis, raster analysis, basics of spatial interpolation, terrain analysis, introduction to programming for GIS (Python), and model builder (model iterations). We will significantly expand the repertoire of tools and cover key elements in GIS analysis: framing your questions; understanding your data; choosing a method; processing the data; and examining the results. Students will also learn and apply technical writing in several reports due as part of their lab exercises. This is a core cores in the Geospatial Certificate offerings and will be offered every fall semester.

Course Outcomes:

• Students will be able to effectively design, manage, and implement spatial databases.
• Students will be able to generate spatial data using a variety of methods.
• Students will be able to apply analytical tools (both raster and vector) to answer specific geospatial questions.
• Students will be able to build basic models.