Course Outline

GEOG 120 - Digital Earth: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems


Fall Semester 2021

Basic Course Information
Courses numbered 1 - 49 are remedial or college preparatory courses which do not apply toward an A. A. Degree and are not intended for transfer. Courses numbered 50-99 apply toward an AA Degree, but are not intended for transfer. Courses numbered 100 and higher apply toward an AA Degree and/or are intended for transfer to a four-year college or university.

D - Credit - Degree Applicable
GEOG
Digital Earth: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
Units and Hours
4
4
Grade/Pass/No Pass
Hour Type Units Weekly Hours Semester Hours x 16 Weeks Semester Hours x 18 Weeks
Lecture Category - 3.00 3.00 x 16 Weeks - 48.00 x 18 Weeks - 54.00
Lab Category - 1.00 3.00 x 16 Weeks - 48.00 x 18 Weeks - 54.00
Subtotal -   6.00 x 16 Weeks - 96.00 x 18 Weeks - 108.00
Out of Class Hour -   6.00 x 16 Weeks - 96.00 x 18 Weeks - 108.00
Totals -   12.00 x 16 Weeks - 192.00 x 18 Weeks - 216.00
Hour Type Units Weekly Hours Semester Hours x 16 Weeks Semester Hours x 18 Weeks
Lecture Category - 3.00 3.00 x 16 Weeks - 48.00 x 18 Weeks - 54.00
Lab Category - 1.00 3.00 x 16 Weeks - 48.00 x 18 Weeks - 54.00
Subtotal -   6.00 x 16 Weeks - 96.00 x 18 Weeks - 108.00
Out of Class Hour -   6.00 x 16 Weeks - 96.00 x 18 Weeks - 108.00
Totals -   12.00 x 16 Weeks - 192.00 x 18 Weeks - 216.00
Catalog Description
An introduction to the mapping sciences with a primary focus on Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Covers the trends, history, structure, applications, hardware and software, and basic operations of GIS in order to provide a foundation for the use of GIS software. Related geographic technologies to be examined include mapping, aerial and satellite imagery, and Global Positioning Systems (GPS). The lab portion will provide introductory training in the use of ArcGIS software including identifying, evaluating, and inputting spatial data, developing and using raster and vector data sets, converting data from one form to another, and applying programming with GIS software.
Student Learning Outcomes
Outcome
Explain the concept of "projection on the fly," and its role in data analysis.
Identify the three basic geometries of vector objects.
Specific Course Objectives
Objective
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:
  • Understand and apply basic geographic principles such as locations, projections, attributes, and spatial relationships.
  • Identify basic types of maps and related spatial data.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in map reading, interpretation, and design.
  • Explain and demonstrate the general applications of GIS in society.
  • Compare and contrast methods of data input including uploading software with numerical and attribute data, scanning maps and images, and digitizing from existing maps.
  • Input, organize, and manipulate raster and vector datasets and be able to deduce the most appropriate uses of each.
  • Compare and contrast various types of data including geospatial and attribute data.
  • Construct simple attribute tables and relational databases.
  • Identify, access, and obtain sources of spatial data for Geographic Information Systems.
  • Apply editing functions to existing GIS data.
  • Effectively convert data from one data model to another.
  • Comprehend and apply basic GIS analytical functions.
  • Define key concepts and terminologies related to the function of Geographic Information Systems.
  • Identify basic components required for GIS use in the workplace.
  • Identify and analyze GIS data, support, and career resources.
  • Use GPS units to collect field data, and import such data into GIS for further analyses.
  • Document and organize spatial data in a professional manner.
Methods of Instruction
Methods of Instruction may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Demonstration
Group Projects/Activities
Lab
Learning Modules
Lecture
Lecture/Lab
Other (Specify)
Content in Terms of Specific Body of Knowledge
  1. Basic geographic principles
    1. location
    2. attributes
    3. relationships
  2. Use of spatial data in society
  3. Map products
    1. types
    2. purposes
    3. designs
  4. Map projections
    1. coordinate systems
    2. datum
    3. scale
  5. Basic map interpretation and analysis
  6. Introduction to GIS
    1. definition
    2. history
    3. links to related technologies (i.e. remote sensing)
  7. Sources of spatial data
    1. paper maps
    2. satellite
    3. aerial imagery
    4. GPS
    5. field surveys
    6. COGO
  8. Downloading GPS data into a GIS
  9. Spatial data capture
    1. photogrammetry
    2. digitization
    3. vectorization
    4. rasterization
    5. georeferencing
  10. Managing and querying GIS databases
  11. Basic spatial analysis with GIS
  12. Principles of map production utilizing GIS
  13. Basic applications in research and the workplace
  14. Current trends in GIS
  15. Organizing and displaying data in a GIS
  16. Data input using GIS software
  17. Creating and using data
  18. Working with distance
    1. area
    2. scale relationships
  19. Querying functions including the use of Boolean operators
  20. Managing tabular data
  21. Creating and editing maps and charts
  22. Documenting GIS data using established metadata standards
  23. Using GIS on the Internet

 

Textbooks/Resources
Textbook
Longley, Paul A., et al
Geographic Information Systems and Science
2nd
New York
John Wiley & Sons
2005
Clark, Keith C
Getting Started with Geographic Information Systems
4th
Upper Saddle River, NJ
Prentice-Hall
2003
Harvey, Francis
A Primer of GIS: Fundamental Geographic and Cartographic Concepts
1st
New York
Guilford Press
2008
Bolstad, Paul
GIS Fundamentals: A First Text on Geographic Information Systems
3rd
Atlas Books
2008
Ormsby, Tim et al
Getting to Know ArcGIS Desktop
3rd
ESRI Press
2013
Bolstad, Paul
GIS Fundamentals: A First Text on Geographic Information Systems
6th
XanEdu Publishing Inc.
2019
Software
ArcGIS ArcView (Software)
10.2
ESRI
Assignments
Trade publications relating to the current applications of GIS. Examples of reading materials are case studies of innovative GIS applications at local governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations. These case studies can usually be found in publications such as ArcUser and ArcNews.
One or more assignments chosen from the following options: - Article Review (2 - 3 page essay) - Case Study Analysis (2 - 3 page essay) - Semester Project (8 - 10 page term paper)
Students will complete laboratory assignments that require them to synthesize lecture and required reading information. In preparation for their projects, students must research current usages of GIS in various fields and identify their limitations.
Outside assignments will include reading texts, review of lecture notes, writing assignments, GIS computer lab assignments, and exam preparation. 8 hours per week.
Methods of Assessment
Evaluation Method
  • Class Participation
  • Class Work
  • Exams/Tests
  • Lab Activities
  • Oral Presentation
  • Research Projects
Open Entry/Open Exit
- Not Open Entry/Open Exit
Repeatability
No
Contact Person
Cheung, Wing H.