Course Announcement
Geographic Information Systems
GEOG 488
Administrivia:
Meeting: TTh 3:00 - 4:15 PM in PSB 310
Instructor: Matthew McGranaghan
Office: PSB 313, 956-7092, matt@hawaii.edu
Overview:
This course is an introduction to geographic information systems. We
will cover the development and use of GIS, including the underlying
concepts of spatial data, data models, data structures, and
spatial analytic computation.
We will also examine data quality, and institutional,
economic, political and social concerns in using GIS.
We will use a microcomputer-based GIS
to illustrate GIS functions and capabilities.
The course requires considerable hands-on GIS use including
data input, database management, spatial data analysis,
and presentation of results.
The course presupposes some familiarity with computers and
mapping.
This term we will be using ESRI's ArcGIS 9.
Readings, Requirements and Grading:
The main text will be
Paul Bolstad (2005) GIS Fundamentals:
A First Text on Geographic Information Systems.
Ormsby (et al.),
Getting to know ArcGIS will be useful if you want
a tutorial guide and a copy of the software for home use.
Supplemental readings from
Peuquet and Marble (1990)
Introductory Readings in Geographic Information Systems
and a pile of reserve readings (see the schedule) will be
suggested.
It is expected that you will read, raise questions from, and be
prepared to discuss the readings.
Class attendance and participation is expected.
Grades will be based on weekly lab assignments and "thought logs",
a midterm exam,
an individual term project,
and a final exam.
This course is a bit of work, but the projects can support
your other courses, and developing both insight and skills
will pay-off in the long-run.
Last updated: 9 Apr 2007