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| 1. Description - |
| Non-technical introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with an emphasis on applications. Includes the application of GIS in a range of disciplines, GIS software and data available, how Global Positioning Systems (GPS) integrate with GIS. Students will be introduced to a variety of free and low cost software and provided with practical exercises.
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| Prerequisite: None
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| Co-requisite: None
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| Advisory: None
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| 2. Course Objectives - |
| - Describe what a Geographic Information System (GIS) is and how it works
- Identify examples of GIS and GIS software
- Explain how GIS are used in various disciplines
- Summarize the history of GIS development
- Relate Global Position Systems (GPS) to GIS
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| 3. Special Facilities and/or Equipment - |
| Classroom with instructor computer, projector and internet connection. Access to a computer lab with internet connection and GIS software.
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| 4. Course Content (Body of knowledge) - |
| - Describe what a Geographic Information System (GIS) is and how it works
- GIS defined
- Elements of a GIS: geometry, georeferencing, databases
- Applications and limits of GIS
- Identify examples of GIS and GIS software
- Free GIS software on the web, downloading and installing
- Free GIS data
- Map Quest
- Google Earth
- Car navigation system
- 911 calls
- Package deliveries
- Explain how GIS are used in various disciplines such as:
- Route optimization in distribution or delivery systems
- Location identification in business development
- Hazard identification and mapping
- City services
- Emergency management
- Biology and ecology
- Real estate
- Business
- Military
- Summarize the history of GIS development
- The two founders of GIS: ESRI and Intergraph
- Different software philosophies
- Early problems with GIS
- Future issues
- Relate Global Position Systems (GPS) to GIS
- A non-technical description of how GPS works
- How GPS integrates with GIS
- Map making with GPS
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| 5. Repeatability - Moved to header area. |
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| 6. Methods of Evaluation - |
| - Homework
- Final project
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| 7. Representative Text(s) - |
| Davis, David E. GIS for Everyone. Redlands, CA. ESRI Press 2003.
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| 8. Disciplines - |
| Geography
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| 9. Method of Instruction - |
| Lecture, Discussion, Cooperative learning exercises, Oral presentations, Demonstration.
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| 10. Lab Content - |
| Not applicable.
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| 11. Honors Description - No longer used. Integrated into main description section. |
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| 12. Types and/or Examples of Required Reading, Writing and Outside of Class Assignments - |
| Homework or in class exercises involving critical thinking that assesses the course Student Learning Outcomes. For example, a critical thinking exercise that asks the student to consider the applications and limits of GIS.
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| 13. Need/Justification - |
| This course is part of the GeoTechnology Certificate.
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