SYS4330

Geographical information systems

M Atchison

6 Points
* 2 hours per week
* Second semester
* Caulfield
* Prohibitions: SYS3134, SYS3330

Objectives On completion of this subject, students will know the basic concepts of GIS, the technology required to support it and the applications for which it has been used. They will understand the issues involved in developing GIS, and have the skills to identify GIS applications and the problems which are likely to be involved in the development of a GIS for a specific application.

Synopsis The subject will provide students with an awareness of the applications of GIS, the nature of the technology involved and the issues in systems development. Topics to be covered will address five main areas as follows. Concepts: The basic terms and concepts of GIS, evolution of computer-aided mapping systems, raster and vector-based systems, evolution of GIS development. Technology: hardware requirements and limitations, software capabilities, data availability and accuracy, the constraints imposed by data on GIS. Applications: land information systems and facilities information systems, natural resource mapping and analysis, geodemographics, GIS for decision support. Management: problems in data co-ordination and duplication of effort, compatibility issues and the need for standards. The future of GIS: emerging trends in GIS development and usage, current and likely future trends in GIS technology.

Assessment Examination: 40%
* Practical work: 60%

Recommended texts

Grimshaw D J Bringing geographical information systems into business Longman, 1994
Maguire D, Goodchild M and Rhind D (eds) GIS: Principles and applications Wiley, 1991
Medyckyj-Scott and Hearnshaw H (eds) Human factors in geographical information systems Belhaven, 1993