SCIE206 Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems

Department of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Science

  1. Course Number and Title

    SCIE206 Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems

  2. Number of Credits

    3 credits

  3. Minimum Number of Instructional Minutes Per Semester

    2250

  4. Prerequisites

    CISC110 (C or better)

    Corequisites

    None

  5. Other Pertinent Information

    Lecture-laboratory format to include in-class and/or online presentation or content and laboratory material. Topics are presented in various modes which may include, but are not limited to, any or all of the following: traditional and/or online lectures, group and/or individual activities, small group discussions, computer simulations and library research.

  6. Catalog Course Description

    This course teaches the theory and practical use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Topics include issues of data accuracy, map projections, scale, data collection, metadata, and data storage/management. GIS analysis techniques, data display options, and cartography are also covered. Students use current GIS software in laboratory exercises.

  7. Required Course Content and Direction

    1. Learning Goals:

      1. Course
        2. Students will:
        1. demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of GIS technology and techniques;
        2. describe and apply the fundamental principles of cartography and data developments;
        3. describe thematic mapping techniques and models;
        4. utilize leading government/industry software to conduct spatial analysis on georeferenced data; and
        5. create spatial output.

      2. Core (if applicable)
        3. This course is not included in the Core.

    2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities:

      1. GIS hardware and software
      2. geodesy
      3. cartography, map projections, coordinates, and scale
      4. vector and raster data models
      5. data entry, storage, and metadata
      6. data collections
      7. data sources
      8. GIS models and data analysis
      9. environmental analysis with GIS
      10. display and data sharing, coordination, and project management
      11. internet mapping
      12. address matching and GIS standards
      13. federal initiatives and emergency response
      14. future of GIS

    3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals:

      1. Course
        2. The evaluative tools may include any or all of the following as specified by the individual instructor’s course format: objective examinations, class participation, field trip and research reports, online activities and discussion, quizzes, projects and papers.

      2. Core (if applicable)
        3. This course is not included in the Core.

    4. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Students:

      Students use educational resources as approved by the department and specified in the individual instructor’s format.

  8. Teaching Methods Employed

    Section VIII is not being used in new and revised syllabi as of 12/10/08.

Revision/Approval: 7/2010