Spatially Connected

Geography 265: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

CRN: 43954
Fall 2010                                                                            
Rock Creek Campus, Bldg, RM 
Office Hours: By appointment                                                         
M W  10:00 – 1:50 p.m.
christina.friedle@pcc.edu

Course Text:  GIS Concepts and ArcGIS Methods, 3rd Edition, David M. Theobald

Course Description and Focus

This course will introduce you to concepts and the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a powerful tool that allows users to compile, analyze, and distribute geographic data electronically.  We will focus on the use of the desktop GIS software package ArcGIS 9.2 from ESRI Corporation. 

ArcGIS requires both an understanding of the computer program and geography.  Because of this, I will be reviewing some basic spatial concepts in class prior to diving into ArcGIS software.  These concepts include: scale, map projections, locational reference systems, the nature of geographic data, and basic mapmaking techniques.

This class is designed to have both a lecture and lab component.  I will structure class so that each class begins with a lecture / discussion of the concepts and techniques for that day.  The remainder of the class will be spent applying those concepts using ArcGIS.  I expect all students to come to class prepared to think, observe, and participate in both discussions and labs.  Active participation in class will not only make the class more interesting and beneficial to the learning process, but come grading time, I will look more favorably on those students. 

Assignments and Grading

Labs – 50%. This includes labs and activities completed both in-class and at home.  There are a total of six labs.  In general, labs are due one week after they are assigned. 

Midterm – 25%. The midterm will consist of short answers, essay questions, and a computer-based application.  The exam will be completed in-class and at home.

Final Project – 25%. The final project will integrate all aspects of GIS and mapping that you learn throughout the quarter.   I will introduce the guidelines in the tenth week of class and you will be given class time to work on the project, but will also be expected to work on it outside of class.  The guidelines are open-ended to allow you to pursue a topic of your choice.   

Final grades will be based on the following scale: A (90-100), B (80-89), C (70-79), D (60-69), and F (below 60). 

Course Outline

Attendance

Although attendance is not officially a part of your grade, it will be difficult to keep up if you are not regularly in class.  If you need to miss class or leave class early, talk to me beforehand to make arrangements.  If you have a personal problem that is inhibiting your performance in this class, please come talk to me as soon as possible so that we can discuss options to make your efforts in this class successful. 

Academic Dishonesty

Plagiarism is “the unauthorized use or close imitation of the language and thoughts of another author and the representation of them as one's own original work (Dictionary.com).”  This is unacceptable.  Cheating is also unacceptable.  If you have any questions about the college’s academic policy, see pages 9-11 of the Students Rights and Responsibilities Handbook, online at http://www.pcc/edu/about/policy/student-rights/student-rights.pdf.  

Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities wishing services and/or accommodations are required to register with the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD).  Please contact the OSD office as soon as possible so that services can be arranged and provided in a timely manner.  The OSD phone # is 503-614-7409.