Intro to Geographical Information Systems (GIS) | Madison College Outline of Instruction

10607179 Intro to Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

Course Information

Description

This course introduces the Geographic Information System (GIS) for digital spatial analysis and cartographic presentation of land. It covers the basics of spatial data types, attribute tables and relational databases, coordinate systems, spatial analysis techniques, and cartographic principles for effective display of information. Emphasis is on developing software skills, particularly ESRI ArcGIS.

Total Credits

Course Competencies

Select spacial data

Assessment Strategies

Skill Demonstration

Criteria

Describe benefits of vector data and raster data

Evaluate metadata to determine suitability

Research and use publicly available data
Select geographic coordinate systems and data accuracy requirements

Assessment Strategies

Skill Demonstration

Criteria

Explain benefits of different coordinate system types

Evaluate significance of coordinate system differences (different datums, adjustments, epochs)
Perform attribute analysis

Assessment Strategies

Skill Demonstration

Criteria

Explain relationships between data sets (one-to-one, one-to-many, many-to-many)

Build attribute queries and modify query parameters

Explain limitations of attribute tables queries for doing spatial analysis
Perform spatial analysis

Assessment Strategies

Skill Demonstration

Criteria

Use common spatial analysis techniques

Compare alternative techniques and select most appropriate one

Edit data before and after spatial analysis to improve results
Use GIS software to produce effective maps

Assessment Strategies

Skill Demonstration, Written Product and/or File/Image

Criteria

Maps show evidence of cartographic principles (clarity, order, balance, contrast, unity, harmony)

Maps include standard elements (legend, scale, north arrow, title, notes)

Final product shows evidence of accuracy, brevity, and clarity, including spelling and grammar