GES3820 - Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for Environmental Management

Leader: Jim Peterson

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit introduces GIS for environmental science, and discusses basic principles, techniques and applications of GIS in the field of environmental management and research. It examines and reviews specific environmental application areas where GIS is a useful tool. Subjects covered include basics of GIS, spatial data sources, spatial data quality, spatial data analysis, terrain modelling, hydrological modelling, land suitability modelling, and decision support systems. It also includes the basic principles of remote sensing and the use of satellite imagery. Cases studies and hands-on practice allow students to gain experience in the use of GIS in environmental management.

Objectives

Students successfully completing this unit will be able to

• demonstrate sound knowledge and clear understanding of basic principles and techniques of GIS;
• understand concepts, issues and problems specific to environmental applications of GIS;
• demonstrate a high level of skill in the use of GIS software in environmental problem solving;
• develop environmental applications of GIS.

Assessment

Practicals (computer exercises) : 50%
Projects (2500-word project reports) : 50%
Practicals and projects will be conducted by using a free trial version of ArcGIS (GIS software), which can be obtained from ESRI company. Students are required to obtain the trial version and have access to a PC and network for the duration of the unit.

Prerequisites

First year Geography sequence

Prohibitions

GES3810