Geographic Information System

At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to: 1. discuss the basic concept, components and uses of GIS; 2. explain the difference between spatial and non-spatial data as well as data format used in GIS; 3. demonstrate understanding of data analysis toolbox, data query and GIS input and output; 4. carryout web mapping using GIS hardware and software packages; 5. manage and encode data in GIS; 6. create, structure and manage database and metadata in GIS; and 7. apply GIS in engineering, surveying and other environmental activities.

Basic concept and uses of GIS. Components of GIS and its relationship to CAD and BIM. GIS data input, sources and integration. Spatial data models: discrete vs. continuous data, 2D, 2.5D, 3D and 4D data. Vector and raster data types. Non-spatial or attribute data. GIS reference system and geodetic datum. Data formats, standards and providers. Topology and spatial relationship. Data analysis toolbox (Selection, buffer, overlay). Data query, GIS output and visualization. Web mapping and location-based services. Temporal GIS and GIS packages. GIS data management. Data encoding principles and equipment. Raster-to-vector conversion. Editing and error analysis. Data scale and accuracy. Database structures, ordered and indexed lists, hierarchical, network, relational, object-oriented and hybrid structure. Standards and practice, creation, maintenance, distribution of metadata. Control terrain representation and analysis. Network models and analysis. GIS applications in utility management, environmental monitoring and assessment, land management, engineering.