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ESM407Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Geographical Information Systems

This course introduces Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to students of Environmental Science and Resource Management. It covers definitions, features, and applications of GIS, including data capture, storage, manipulation, and visualization. Students will learn about spatial and attribute databases, data models, and GIS implementation issues. The course also explores GIS applications in cartography, socio-economics, environmental management, and land management, preparing students for practical applications of GIS technology.

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120h
Study Time
13
Weeks
9h
Per Week
basic
Math Level
Course Keywords
GISSpatial DataGeographic AnalysisData ManagementCartography

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
Math Level
Basic Math
🔬
Learning Type
Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

GIS Definitions and Features

2

Geographical Data

3

GIS Components (Hardware, Software, Data, Personnel)

4

Functions of GIS (Data Input, Storage, Manipulation, Output)

5

Database Structure (Spatial and Attribute Data Models)

6

GIS Applications (Cartography, Socio-Economics, Environment)

7

GIS Implementation Issues

Total Topics7 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Basic computer literacy

Fundamental knowledge of geography

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

GIS Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Cartographer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Urban Planner

Apply your skills in this growing field

Environmental Manager

Apply your skills in this growing field

Data Scientist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Environmental ManagementUrban PlanningTransportationAgricultureNatural Resources

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Introduction to GIS

2h

Unit 1: Overview of GIS

2 study hours
  • Read the introduction to GIS.
  • Understand the roles of science, art, and technology in GIS.
  • Reflect on how GIS is revolutionizing data collection, storage, and analysis.
Week
2

Module 1: Introduction to GIS

2h

Unit 2: Definitions of GIS

2 study hours
  • Study the various definitions of GIS.
  • Identify the essential features of GIS.
  • Explore the spatial questions GIS can answer.
Week
3

Module 1: Introduction to GIS

2h

Unit 3: History of GIS Development

2 study hours
  • Trace the historical evolution of GIS.
  • Highlight the factors responsible for the growth of GIS.
  • Discuss the impact of technology on GIS development.
Week
4

Module 1: Introduction to GIS

2h

Unit 4: Understanding Geographical Data

2 study hours
  • Define geographical data.
  • Explain the characteristics of geographical data.
  • Identify the types and classes of geographical data.
Week
5

Module 1: Introduction to GIS

2h

Unit 5: GIS versus Allied Technologies

2 study hours
  • Highlight acronyms, synonyms, and terms related to GIS.
  • Identify information technologies related to GIS.
  • Differentiate between GIS and other related technologies like CAD.
Week
6

Module 2: Components of GIS

2h

Unit 1: GIS Hardware

2 study hours
  • Identify the hardware components of a typical GIS.
  • Discuss the functions of each hardware device.
  • Understand the role of computers, input devices, storage devices, and output devices.
Week
7

Module 2: Components of GIS

2h

Unit 2: GIS Software

2 study hours
  • Explain what GIS software is.
  • Identify different types/makers of GIS software.
  • Explore the subsystems or modules within GIS software.
Week
8

Module 2: Components of GIS

2h

Unit 3: Data

2 study hours
  • Differentiate between spatial and aspatial types of data.
  • Explain the meaning of metadata.
  • Analyze attribute data and its importance in GIS.
Week
9

Module 2: Components of GIS

2h

Unit 4: Personnel

2 study hours
  • Identify the various groups of GIS personnel.
  • State the functions of GIS personnel.
  • Understand the roles of engineers, data providers, digitizers, programmers, analysts, and managers.
Week
10

Module 2: Components of GIS

2h

Unit 5: GIS Method/Procedure

2 study hours
  • Underscore the need for understanding method or procedure as a major component of GIS.
  • Highlight the need to link GIS procedure with the general business of the company.
  • Consider the nature of the company's business and spatial data requirements.
Week
11

Module 3: Functions of GIS

4h

Unit 1: Data Input

2 study hours
  • Discuss the concept of geo-referencing.
  • Examine the processes of spatial and attribute data input.
  • Analyze the issues of data checking and editing.

Unit 2: Data Storage

2 study hours
  • Identify the various electronic data storage devices used in GIS.
  • Discuss the qualities of good storage devices.
  • Understand the importance of data storage in GIS operations.
Week
12

Module 3: Functions of GIS

4h

Unit 3: Data Retrieval and Manipulation

2 study hours
  • Identify some of the major data manipulation and analysis operations carried out in GIS.
  • Discuss in detail some of the geographical analysis procedures.
  • Explore slope and aspect analysis, data modeling, topological modeling, and network analysis.

Unit 4: Data Output

2 study hours
  • Examine the issue of data display in a GIS environment.
  • Discuss document and printing formatting.
  • Analyze final data output and its importance in GIS.
Week
13

Module 3: Functions of GIS

2h

Unit 5: Data Updating

2 study hours
  • Define the concept of data updating.
  • Discuss the process of spatial data updating.
  • Explain the process of attribute (non-spatial) data updating.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review definitions of GIS and its components from Units 1-2.

2

Practice spatial analysis techniques covered in Module 3 using sample datasets.

3

Create concept maps linking Units 3-5 database concepts.

4

Focus on GIS applications in environmental management and urban planning from Module 5.

5

Study the differences between raster and vector data models from Module 4.

6

Understand the challenges of GIS implementation in Nigeria discussed in Unit 5 of Module 5.

7

Review all TMAs and their feedback to identify areas needing more attention.

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