This module will develop skills, knowledge of analytical techniques and confidence in using Geographic Information Systems for geographical enquiry. Students will be introduced to the underlying principles of GIS and spatial data analysis. As they advance through the course more advanced analysis techniques will be introduced which may include: grid algebra, cost-distance analysis, interpolation and surface analysis, and batch processing. These skills will be demonstrated through a project-based assessment allowing the students to apply what they have learnt to a specific geo-informatics issue / problem-based scenario.

A GIS report weighted at 100%.

1 Project Report - 2000 words with accompanying output from a GIS (digital and or paper based) 100% Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5

Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback / assessment )
For the report to be considered for a pass grade it must be accompanied by appropriate maps, tables and output from a GIS.

Formative Assessment: Weekly workshops will largely be problem based, with key concepts introduced at the beginning and feedback offered during the workshops. During these weekly workshops the opportunities provided for discussion of responses to worksheet questions with peers and the tutor and will allow students to evaluate their understanding of the module materials and assess their progress with their project report.

10 x 2 hour weekly workshops = 20 hours

The remaining 130 hours will be used for independent learning and completion of the coursework project as follows:
• 40 hours of further use and familiarisation with the specialist software outside scheduled classes;
• 30 hours of guided reading to reinforce understanding of the concepts which underpin the use of GIS and to support the weekly workshop activities;
• 60 hours to complete the coursework project

Heywood I, Cornelius S and Carver S (2011) An Introduction to Geographical Information Systems, 4th Edition, Pearson. London.

Brewer C A (2015) Designing better maps: a guide for GIS users (2nd edition). ESRI, Redmond.

Skidmore A ed (2002) Environmental modelling with GIS and remote sensing. Taylor and Francis, London.

Longley, P.A., et. al (2015) (4th Edition), Geographic Information Systems and Science (Chichester: John Wiley and Sons Ltd).

Sciences IT Suite
ARCGIS or equivalent software and colour printers

None.

1) Demonstrate an advanced and critical understanding of the fundamental principles of geographic information systems.
(KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING)

2) To understand the difference between primary and secondary data sources used in GIS and how to load them correctly into the system for display and analysis.
(KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING, ENQUIRY)

3) Demonstrate and advanced ability to query, manipulate and analyse spatial datasets within a GIS and produce high quality output from a GIS.
(ENQUIRY, ANALYSIS, PROBLEM SOLVING, APPLICATION)

4) Demonstrate the ability to use the appropriate methods to batch process spatial analysis tasks for a variety of environmental datasets.
(ANALYSIS, APPLICATION)

5) Demonstrate an advanced practical ability to undertake a substantive piece of spatial analysis in response to a site location problem. To prepare a report and relevant GIS output (digital maps and methods) to detail the methods used and conclusions drawn.
(ANALYSIS, PROBLEM SOLVING, APPLICATION)

6) Demonstrate advanced ability to prepare a report illustrating an application of GIS and containing relevant and high quality GIS output.
(KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING, COMMUNICATION)