GIS 101 - Geographic Information Systems

Credits: 3

Examines the fundamentals of geographic information systems. Requires the collection, manipulation and representation of data gathered from a variety of sources. Introduces professionsand real world applications that use GIS based technology.

Prerequisite(s): READING LEVEL 3 and WRITING LEVEL 2 and MATH LEVEL 2. CST 133W recommended.
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 45 Lab Hours: 0
Meets MTA Requirement: Natural Science
Pass/NoCredit: Yes

Outcomes and Objectives 1. Demonstrate understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

A. Demonstrate understanding of the history of GIS.

B. Demonstrate understanding of key terms and concepts central to Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

2. Demonstrate understanding of data sources used in GIS software.

A. Demonstrate understanding of available sources of GIS data including how to locate them.

B. Identify key elements of metadata used to describe datasets.

C. Download and prepare datasets and tables for use in GIS software.

D. Collect data in the field using GPS.

E. Identify data limitations and quality issues, such as map and data accuracy.

3. Demonstrate understanding of information representation methods associated with GIS.

A. Describe spatial data models used for representing real world objects in a digital format, such as vector and raster data models.

B. Describe datums, latitude, longitude and coordinate systems.

C. Apply the concepts of projection and scale.

4. Analyze data using GIS software.

A. Select, query, and manipulate data utilizing tools such as proximity, dissolve, buffer, union and merging.

B. Evaluate geometric features including length, distance, and area.

C. Select, query, and manipulate attribute data using attribute queries and joins.

D. Digitize and edit data in GIS software.

E. Apply standard practices of map design and symbology to create maps.

5. Produce a written or oral GIS research project that solves a real-world problem or answers a question.

A. Design a GIS research project.

B. Collect and/or create data for use in GIS project.

C. Complete analysis in GIS software.

D. Present results in written or oral format.