GEOL 512 / ENVS 412 / ERTH 412
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
Fall 2013
General Information
This course focuses on the foundational principles of geographic information systems that can be applied across a range of disciplines. The course introduces students to using and making maps, working with spatial data, and advanced GIS applications. Specific topics include cartographic design, cartographic modelling, building file geodatabases, working with raster and vectors datasets, geocoding, network analysis, geoprocessing, spatial analysis, and map automation. The course is intended for undergraduate and graduate students who wish to understand the basic concepts and applications underlying geographic information science and technology.
Course Objectives
· Present the basic concepts of Geographic Information Systems
· Present methods to process, analyze, and visualize spatial data and information using commercially-available GIS software
· Introduce data manipulation and mapping at different scales of space, time, and complexity
· Foster ability to efficiently solve complex geospatial problems by clearly defining a project objective, determining the tools and parameters needed to achieve the objective, and automating the final workflow
· Discuss a range of case studies in which GIS has been used in cartographic modeling, simple spatial modeling, and spatio-temporal modeling for applications in environmental science, geology, hydrology, and engineering
Instructor
Michael Wine
Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
132 MSEC
Expectations and Responsibilities
Students should be able to communicate to instructors using electronic mail, and to access and search the Internet for data and information relevant to the course. A working knowledge of Word, Excel, Access, and Powerpoint is helpful along with general computer proficiency.
Instructors and students are expected to adhere to New Mexico Tech’s Code of Academic Integrity <externalweb.nmt.edu/aaffairs/pdfs/acadhonesty.pdf. A New Mexico Tech student’s submission of work for academic credit indicates that the work is the student’s own. All outside assistance should be acknowledged, and the student’s academic position truthfully reported at all times.
Course Textbooks
Bolstad, Paul. 2012. GIS Fundamentals, 4th Ed. Eider Press. White Bear, Lake Minnesota.
Price, Maribeth. 2013. Mastering ArcGIS 6th Ed. McGraw Hill Press. New York, New York.
Assignments and Grading
Lab Exercises / 40%Class Participation / 10%
GIS Presentation / 10%
Exams / 40%
Exams
There will be two exams. Exams will cover all material covered in class as well as in the textbook. Students who are unable to take an exam at the scheduled time may take a make-up exam with a note of explanation from the dean or graduate dean.
Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities are encouraged to meet with the instructors in order that course materials can be updated and adapted appropriately to better foster a positive teaching and learning experience.
Powerpoint lectures will be provided on shortly after each lecture. Note that what is in these slides is only a portion of what is discussed in class or available through reading assignments, and should not take the place of class attendance and participation.
Assignments will be accepted within one week of the due date. Late assignment grades will be reduced by 20%. Assignments may only be submitted for grading once; submit an on-time, high quality, and complete assignment!
For those who would like additional practice with the GIS software we are using in lab sections, Professor Bolstad has made available ArcGIS Lessons (with exercises/data/videos) on his web site. Please avail yourself of these resources as warranted: http://www.paulbolstad.net/4thedition/lesson_recs.html
GIS Presentation Evaluation Rubric
The objective of the GIS presentation is to introduce the class to a specialized application of GIS of personal and professional interest to the presenter. The presenter may present on their own research regarding a GIS topic of interest, a GIS project that they have undertaken (or are currently involved with)
· Background – What is the big picture issue addressed by the presentation?
· GIS Topic – Relationship of topic to GIS should be clear.
· Inclusiveness – This class includes a diverse cohort of students from several different departments and disciplines—earth sciences, environmental science, geology, hydrology, math, mineral engineering, environmental engineering, and engineering management; any terms that are discipline specific should be defined in the presentation so that it is easily understood by the entire class.
· Presentation Length – The presentation should be 5 – 10 minutes in length.
· Response to Questions – Presenter should demonstrate an appropriate level of topic knowledge when responding to audience questions.
· Audience Interaction – Presentation should engage audience and hold audience’s attention. Presenter should make eye contact while presenting, speak at an appropriate pace, speak with adequate volume, and speak articulately.
· Accuracy – Concepts and facts presented should be accurate and correct.
· Organization – The purpose of the presentation should be presented clearly, transitions should be smooth, and the flow should be logical and easy to follow.
· Communication Aids – Visual aids should be easily visible throughout the room, should reinforce the presentation, and improve audience understanding of the topic.
· Project / Research Scope – The presentation should reflect an appropriate scope of research and/or a project of appropriate scope