Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2020 - 2021
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Description At its simplest, spatial analysis is concerned with understanding the world around us through mapping and visualising complex data and large datasets to help make informed decisions. In today’s digital world, spatial analysis is therefore essential to all aspects of our lives. Although we often take it for granted, it is used for a variety of fundamental purposes including mapping, spatial analysis, planning and decision-making within a wide range of disciplines and sectors. Common examples of its uses include environmental management and conservation, emergency service planning and humanitarian relief, resource management, health care provision, land use and urban planning, utilities management, transport and retail and food sectors. Each of these sectors are likely to be directly or indirectly impacted by climate and environmental change. This module is designed to give students an understanding and experience of basic spatial analysis and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) concepts, functionality and its uses. The module will specifically explore spatial data analysis and project management through the use of online (Google Earth) and commercial GIS mapping software (ArcGIS). The module will introduce students to the basics of GIS and its applications and applies a problem-solving approach using hands-on practical lectures. Students will be trained in the collection, management, visualisation and analysis of geographic data through and examination of real-world climatic and environmental sustainability challenges. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Identify, access and explore resources related to environmental and climatic spatial data 2. Manipulate and analyse environmental spatial data and produce basic analysis and maps using GIS software 3. Demonstrate basic technical skills using different GIS software and tools to examine and address complex global environmental challenges 4. Interpret results and communicate findings (oral and in writing) of environmental spatial data analysis 5. Manage and deliver GIS research projects/portfolios at individual and/or group levels | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and
Learning Activities Indicative content and Learning ActivitiesIntroduction to GIS and GI softwareIndicative content and Learning ActivitiesGoogle Earth/ArcGIS online and their interfaces; files, layers and data managementIndicative Content and Learning ActivitiesDigitising dataIndicative Content and Learning ActivitiesEditing digitised dataIndicative Content and Learning ActivitiesData gathering and visualisation in GISIndicative Content and Learning ActivitiesMap layouts, symbology and simple spatial analysisIndicative Content and Learning ActivitiesData sourcing, visualisation and managementIndicative Content and Learning ActivitiesEnvironmental and climatic data mapping | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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