EAE5068 - Spatial data analysis - 2019

6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL

Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Faculty

Science

Organisational Unit

School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Xuan Zhu

Coordinator(s)

Dr Xuan Zhu

Unit guides

Offered

Clayton

  • Second semester 2019 (On-campus)

Prerequisites

Enrolment in the Master of Science

Prohibitions

EAE4068

Synopsis

This unit aims to teach the knowledge and skills for exploring the spatial patterns that result from social and physical processes on or near the Earth's surface. It examines the theories and methods of quantitative geography, including spatial data exploration, hypothetic testing and spatial predictive modelling, provides practical training in fundamental tools of spatial analysis in GIS, and develops skills in finding, understanding and applying appropriate spatial analysis tools, and correctly interpreting and presenting the results.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

  1. To understand the concepts and nature of spatial data analysis.
  2. To understand the geographical concepts of distance, adjacency and interaction and how fundamental they are in performing spatial data analysis.
  3. To understand and apply different approaches to spatial data exploration.
  4. To understand spatial statistics, assumptions and how they are used to explain spatial patterns and processes.
  5. To demonstrate competency in the use of spatial data analysis tools.
  6. To be able to interpret and communicate effectively the results of spatial data analysis.
  7. To demonstrate the ability to plan, design and implement a spatial data analysis project.

Assessment

NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Examination (2 hours): 50%

Practical work: 25%

Project: 25%

This unit is offered at both Level 4 and Level 5, differentiated by the level of the assessment. Students enrolled in EAE5068 will be expected to demonstrate a higher level of learning in this subject than those enrolled in EAE4068. The assignments and exam in this unit will use some common items from the EAE4068 assessment tasks, in combination with several higher level questions and tasks.

Workload requirements

  • One 2-hour lecture and one 3-hour practical per week
  • Seven hours of independent study per week

See also Unit timetable information

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Master of Earth Science