GIS 245 GIS 1

GIS 1 is the second in the series of Geographic Information Science and Technology courses. The course will build on the foundations of geospatial technology introduced in GIS 151. Students will use ArcGIS software to explore cartographic principles, projections, data capture, data structures, and data analysis. Access to a computer outside of class (running Windows 8.1 or later) is strongly recommended. Students who do not have access to a computer are strongly encouraged to attend GIS open lab hours. Lab included. Students who take this class online must have a computer with a Windows operating system (PC or a MAC with a windows boot option) OR be able to attend the GIS open lab hours.

Credits

4

Prerequisite

GIS 151 or instructor consent

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Apply analytical skills to social phenomena in order to understand human behavior: Use US census data, other data, and environmental data to analyze and visualize human interactions and human development related to: urban growth, crime, urbanization, ethnicity, religion, etc.
2. Apply knowledge and experience to foster personal growth and better appreciate the diverse social world in which we live: Use US census data, other data, and environmental data to analyze and visualize human interactions and human development related to: urban growth, crime, urbanization, ethnicity, religion, etc.
3. Understand the role of individuals and institutions within the context of society: Students will: understand the importance of data literacy by demonstrating data inconsistencies in collection and interpretation
4. Assess different theories and concepts, and understand the distinctions between empirical and other methods of inquiry: Students will: understand the cartographic application of data from various measurement levels – ratio, nominal, interval, and ordinal
5. Utilize appropriate information literacy skills in written and oral communication: Students will be able to choose appropriate information/data needed to address specific problems. They will be able to evaluate information /data accuracy and adjust necessary data parameters. Students will discuss the ethical dilemmas related to the creation and use of spatial data and its impact on: The GIS profession, GIS colleagues, and the public
6. Understand the diversity of human experience and thought, individually and collectively: Students will: evaluate various census data related to socioeconomic status, age, religion and ethnicity
7. Apply knowledge and skills to contemporary problems and issues: Students will: collect, edit, and analysis data to create visual and graphic information