GES3610 - Geographical Information Systems for Business and Social Science Applications

Leader: Dr Xuan Zhu

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit introduces GIS for business and social science applications, and discusses its relevance, basic principles, techniques and practice in the field of geodemographics, marketing and service planning. It focuses on geocoded data bases that refer to spatial heterogeneity in the social environment. Cases studies and hands-on practices allow students to gain experience in the use of GIS in census data analysis, business and service planning. Issues of data quality, time series compatibility, statistical mapping and spatial analysis will be examined in theory, and applied in practical work.

Objectives

1. To introduce principles of GIS for applications in business and social science;
2. To investigate techniques provided by GIS which are relevant to business and social science;
3. To develop knowledge and competency in common methods of mapping and spatial analysis through hands-on practicals.

Assessment

Written assignments (2500 words) : 25
Practicals (including practical test) : 50
Written exam (2hr) : 25

Contact hours

One 2hr lecture and one 3hr practical per week