Northeastern State University

GEOG 3813
Geographic Information Systems

Course Description:

Introduction to GIS as a decision-support system using spatially-referenced data.  Provides experience with GIS software in environmental and social science applications.  Prerequisite:  basic familiarity with maps and computer proficiency.

Expected Course Outcomes:

Each student will be expected to:

  1. Use fundamental map concepts such as projections, scale, and coordinate systems to create spatially-referenced databases.

  2. Be able to manipulate spatial data within ArcGIS ArcView to produce base and choropleth (thematic) maps.

  3. Acquire skills in utilizing GIS software as analytical tools for problem-solving in a locational context.  Major GIS analytical capabilities include distance and area calculations, spatial overlays, spatial queries, coordinate and projection conversions, and analyzing spatial relationships (such as near, within, adjacent, intersection).
    4.  
  4. Develop strategies to use GIS capabilities to help in problem-solving and decision-making for environmental and social science applications.
Revised August 21, 2005.