Geographical Information Systems (Advanced) module (GE42010)

Learn more about applying powerful software like ArcGIS to a range of real-world problems in which location is a key component

On this page
Credits

30

Module code

GE42010

The world is changing rapidly. Information on location has never been more important to help assess, understand, manage, and plan for such changes. GIS are powerful systems for representing, analysing, visualising location-based information. They are the cornerstone for a larger geospatial sector.

In this module you will explore how GIS can be applied to a range of problems and situations. This involves using leading-edge GIS software (ArcGIS). You will combine this with a range of real-world datasets, particularly for Scotland/Britain.

You will learn how to create and integrate data from various sources. You will also cover GIS approaches to analysis and problem-solving. You will also explore how mapping and other visualisation and communication methods facilitate new insights.

No prior GIS knowledge of GIS is required for this module. This module is taught in parallel with GE32012 Geographical Information Systems.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

  • learn about fundamental GIS concepts, principles and techniques
  • work directly with industry-standard GIS software
  • explore how to obtain and create GIS datasets from multiple different sources
  • learn about a range of GIS applications, and career roles within GIS
  • undertake your own GIS analysis, making decisions yourself on what data and techniques to use and on how to communicate results.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • understand key GIS concepts, principles and terms
  • show your ability to use a range of core GIS techniques
  • apply your GIS knowledge and skills independently
  • show judgement in appropriate and responsible use of GIS software and data

Assignments / assessment

  • class test (40%)
  • GIS project (60%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

  • weekly lectures
  • practical exercises
  • quizzes
  • tutorials

Indicative list of weekly topics:

Week Topic
1 Introduction to the module, ArcGIS Pro and GIS data available from the Digimap Ordnance Survey collection
2 Creating an ArcGIS geodatabase and performing a simple analysis
3 Creating and editing feature class data. Georeferencing and coordinate systems
4 Table joins for associating feature and attribute data. Choropleth mapping and designing map layouts
5 Raster data management and raster terrain surfaces and 3D visualization
6 Raster overlays and converting between raster and vector formats
7 Web GIS - exploring ArcGIS Online
8 For the remainder of the semester, you will focus on GIS project development

Courses

This module is available on following courses: