GP 290 - Advanced Topics in Geographic Information Systems

Credit Hours: 4

This course provides an advanced study of GIS technologies, concepts, and applications with an emphasis on GIS project completion and management. This third course builds on the experience and knowledge gained in GP 150 and GP 250. Students will gain practical experience by completing GIS projects that incorporate spatial database design, GIS analysis, suitability studies, and GIS visualization. ESRI’s ArcGIS product extensions including spatial analyst and 3D analyst are utilized extensively. Experience will be gained via small in-class projects.

Course Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

more fully articulate the role of space as a source for explanation and understanding;
demonstrate a conceptual and working knowledge of spatial analysis operations, including interpolation, transformation, spatial statistics, 3-D, and network modeling;
demonstrate a working knowledge of 3D terrain analysis techniques to visualize surfaces and explore possible relationships between land cover type and elevation, slope, and aspect.;
design and implement a GIS analytical model; demonstrate basic understanding and use of a customized GIS data model;
develop a strategy to implement an effective GIS, starting with a basic scientific or decision-support question in mind, knowing something about potential problems to avoid, and realizing that all GIS projects vary in their design, configuration, and operation, as well as in the amount of time needed to gather, format, and input data;
demonstrate advanced GIS software skills, particularly in ArcGIS 9.x, as well as intermediate to advanced scientific computing skills; and
employ verbal/written communication and computer technology skills by way of a formal GIS project.

Prerequisites: GP 150 or permission of the instructor.
F/S (N)

May be taken concurrently with GP 250.