Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The overall aim of this module is to introduce the principles of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and to a range of statistical methods for the analysis of spatial data. We will begin by introducing cartographic principles and week-by-week build competencies around managing and analysing spatial datasets. Application of techniques will be developed whilst dealing with geographical grand challenges.

The module will enable students to:
- Develop an understanding of the emergence and development of GIS as a technology, both within the discipline and within society at large.
- Enhance knowledge of the GIS representation of the physical environment and human society, fostering practical insights and analytical skills.
- Gain essential skills and knowledge to work with various geospatial data types and perform spatial analysis for a wide range of applications.

Each lecture and practical will aim to link GIS analyses with topical real-world case studies around the key themes (Geographical Perspectives on the Anthropocene Era, Climate, Pollution, Sustainability and Biodiversity). This will frame the practical sessions around clearly defined interdisciplinary topics.

This module aims to provide students with key transferable skills to boost their employability and practical skills for use throughout their degree programme and further employment.

Outline Of Syllabus

We will begin by introducing cartographic principles and week-by-week build competencies around managing and analysing spatial datasets. Application of techniques will be developed whilst dealing with geographical crises.

Core technical competencies may include:
- Introduction to GIS and quantitative techniques
- Principles of Cartography, geovisualisation and Map Design
- Coordinate systems and projections
- Spatial data types and models
- Secondary data sources
- Data management and editing
- Spatial analysis (e.g., distance, density, zonal)
- Interpret data and apply appropriate spatial statistics

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

By the end of the module, students will:
1) Develop a comprehensive understanding of essential GIS methods, encompassing the application of diverse spatial data types and the interpretation of their patterns.
2) Understand how GIS techniques are applied across a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary concepts in geography, through both a human and physical lens.

Intended Skill Outcomes

By the end of the module, students will be able to:
1) Utilize the principles of cartography to create high-quality maps that effectively communicate geographical information.
2) Apply statistical and GIS concepts using real-world data such as secondary data, environmental data, and satellite imagery.
3) Design a GIS project grounded in datasets encompassing both physical and human geographical perspectives.
4) Conduct a fundamental spatial analysis of geographic data by employing both ArcGIS Pro and R.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures and practicals complement each other by providing a theoretical background of the concept along with practical, hands-on experience using GIS and R software, integrating a variety of geographical datasets.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

- Online multiple-choice assessments will verify that students have comprehended the concepts and can interpret the practical outcomes and ideas presented in the lectures.
- The creative project will assess the students’ ability to combine practical knowledge and apply it to a creative output based on real-world data and aligned with their interests.

General Notes

N/A