Geographical Informations Systems I
7.5 ECTS creditsThe course includes both theoretical and practical components in the form of course reading and exercises that are assessed in the form of hand-in assignments. The course is divided into three parts: theory, exercises, and a project.
The course covers central concepts and definitions. Lectures and course reading are supplemented with an introduction to common GIS software, including introductory exercises designed to help students learn a particular software programme, deepen their knowledge, and apply their knowledge in practice. The course also covers functions and areas of use for advanced vector-based GIS. In addition, the course focuses on spatial information in databases as well as data quality with regard to accuracy and resolution. Students learn about the structure of geographic data in various formats, data editing, analyses, and how to present results. Students are also introduced to ongoing processes of development and standardisation in the field.
An important aim of the course is for students to develop an understanding of the role of geographic information today and the available infrastructure for geographic information, such as:
- institutional frameworks (such as legislation)
- standards, specifications, and guidelines for using geographic data
- regulations pertaining to the basic geographic data needed in society
- technological infrastructure
- research, development, and education
The use of geographic information systems in different areas, such as the environment, physical planning, risk and safety, health care, and business, is exemplified. An overview of how geographic information is regulated by EU directives is also provided.
Finally, students undertake a project in which they apply the theoretical knowledge acquired. Students complete a group project in which they investigate how it is possible to use GIS and geodata to work for sustainable development.
The course covers central concepts and definitions. Lectures and course reading are supplemented with an introduction to common GIS software, including introductory exercises designed to help students learn a particular software programme, deepen their knowledge, and apply their knowledge in practice. The course also covers functions and areas of use for advanced vector-based GIS. In addition, the course focuses on spatial information in databases as well as data quality with regard to accuracy and resolution. Students learn about the structure of geographic data in various formats, data editing, analyses, and how to present results. Students are also introduced to ongoing processes of development and standardisation in the field.
An important aim of the course is for students to develop an understanding of the role of geographic information today and the available infrastructure for geographic information, such as:
- institutional frameworks (such as legislation)
- standards, specifications, and guidelines for using geographic data
- regulations pertaining to the basic geographic data needed in society
- technological infrastructure
- research, development, and education
The use of geographic information systems in different areas, such as the environment, physical planning, risk and safety, health care, and business, is exemplified. An overview of how geographic information is regulated by EU directives is also provided.
Finally, students undertake a project in which they apply the theoretical knowledge acquired. Students complete a group project in which they investigate how it is possible to use GIS and geodata to work for sustainable development.
Progressive specialisation:
G1F (has less than 60 credits in first‐cycle course/s as entry requirements)
Education level:
Undergraduate level
Admission requirements:
Registered for Introductory Mathematics, 7.5 ECTS credits, or Mathematics for Engineers I, 7.5 ECTS credits, and 3 ECTS credits completed in Introduction to GIS and Cartography (7.5 ECTS credits), or equivalent
Selection:
Selection is usually based on your grade point average from upper secondary school or the number of credit points from previous university studies, or both.
This course is included in the following programme
- Geographic Information Systems Engineering (studied during year 1)
- Engineering: Surveying Technology and Geographical IT (studied during year 1)
- Programme in Surveying and Mapping (studied during year 1)
- Programme in Surveying and Cartography (studied during year 1)