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Unit of Study GENG1003 - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (2024)

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Unit Snapshot

  • Enrolment information

    This unit requires software that is only compatible with Windows (W10 and newer).

Unit description

Introduces students to geographic information systems (GIS) and how GIS can be used to solve a simple spatial problem in environmental science. Students will use location data from a global positioning system (GPS) and other field data. They will integrate these data into a geodatabase via Excel. They will gather relevant existing spatial data and create a Story Map and Infographic that conveys a clear message to the general public.

Unit content

1. Understanding Spatial and Non-Spatial Data in GIS

2. Mastering Coordinate Systems: Projections and Datums

3. Ensuring Data Quality: Detecting and Repairing Data Issues

4. Integrating Spreadsheets with Your GIS Workflow

5. Creating Professional Maps with Confidence

6. Presenting Your Findings: Story Maps and Infographics

Availabilities

Location Domestic International
Lismore
Term3
Term3
Online
Term3
N/A

Learning outcomes

Unit Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a unit. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes. The unit learning outcomes and graduate attributes are also the basis of evaluating prior learning.

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

incorporate spatial and non-spatial data into a GIS

explain coordinate systems and quality control of spatial and non-spatial data

use a GIS to solve a simple spatial problem and produce a professional map

communicate spatial data concepts to a wide audience using Story Maps and Infographics.

Prescribed learning resources

Prescribed Texts
  • No prescribed texts.
Prescribed Resources/Equipment

  • Students must have access to a computer that will run ArcMap Desktop (System requirements). Please note that ArcMap Desktop requires a Windows operating system and does not run on mac computers. There will be an option for mac users to remotely access a university computer from anywhere however, this option requires a stable internet connection. ArcMap Desktop is installed on selected university computers at all campuses.

Prescribed Learning Resources may change in future Teaching Periods.