Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students will have an understanding of the nature of geographical data; the relative strengths and weaknesses of different GIS data structures and the storage, retrieval and display of geographical data using a simple raster GIS; the principles of statistical sampling, descriptive and comparative statistics, and the analysis of statistical trends and spatial relationships; wordprocessors and spreadsheet-based presentation and analysis skills.
Synopsis This subject introduces students to a number of techniques relevant to the collection, analysis and presentation of geographical data. Two major themes of the course are the collection, storage and presentation of data using computer-based geographical information systems and statistical analysis of those data. Strong emphasis is placed on exploring the concepts and assumptions underlying the various techniques as well as their practical application. Through the computer-based practical sessions students are introduced to wordprocessing, spreadsheet, presentation and GIS software packages.
Assessment Written (4000 words): 50% + Examinations (2 hours): 30% + Practical work: 20%