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Applications of GIS (GEOM20013)
Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
- Overview
- Eligibility and requirements
- Assessment
- Dates and times
- Further information
- Timetable(opens in new window)
Contact information
Semester 1
Martin Tomko
Overview
Availability | Semester 1 |
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AIMS
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are a blend of computer mapping and database technologies used to store, manage, analyse and display geographic data. This subject introduces students to this exciting technology and provides them with the skills and knowledge to solve everyday problems facing our built and natural environments. Students who complete this subject will have developed knowledge that is immediately applicable in the workplace. The subject also lays the foundations for more advanced studies in the field of geomatics and spatial information systems.
INDICATIVE CONTENT
Application areas of GIS, and related data sets and operations, are presented by experts in their professions. In parallel, students train in computer labs the use of GIS for data integration, analysis and mapping, inspired by the applications presented.
Intended learning outcomes
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILO)
On completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Explain the basic principles and procedures associated with geographic information systems (GIS)
- Demonstrate practical skills such as understanding data format, data collection, data entry and modification, projection systems, basic spatial and 3D analysis and finally concept of visualization in the use of GIS software
- Describe how GIS can be applied in a range of situations, such as urban planning, site selection, environmental management, facilities and network management, and many more
- Explain the particular role that GIS plays in decision making for problem solving purposes
- Use GIS software for spatial analysis and cartographic mapping in a range of applications such as emergency management, urban development, and land administration.
Generic skills
On the completion of this subject students will have:
- The ability to apply knowledge of basic science fundamentals
- The ability to communicate effectively, not only with other scientists but also with the community at large
- The ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution
- The ability to function effectively as an individual and in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams, with the capacity to be a leader or manager as well as an effective team member
- An expectation of the need to undertake lifelong learning and the capacity to do so
- The capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning
- Openness to new ideas and unconventional critiques of received wisdom.
Last updated: 11 April 2024
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 11 April 2024
Assessment
Additional details
- An individual assignment addressing an application of GIS (requiring 15 hours of work) due week 4 of semester (20%). Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) 1, 3 and 4 are addressed;
- A group literature review (requiring 15 hours work for each team member), on an application of GIS which will provide the foundation for the final group assignment, due mid-semester (15%). ILOs 3 and 4 are addressed in this review;
- A group major assignment on the application of GIS researched by the group during the literature review (requiring each team member committing 40 hours of work), due end of teaching period (35%). ILOs 2 - 5 are addressed in this assignment;
- 2-hour examination, held in the end of semester examination period (30%). ILOs 1, 3 and 4 are addressed in the examination.
Hurdle requirement: Students must pass the end of semester examination.
Last updated: 11 April 2024
Dates & times
- Semester 1
Principal coordinator Martin Tomko Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 48 hours (Lectures: 2 hours per week; Tutorials: 2 hours per week) Total time commitment 170 hours Teaching period 27 February 2017 to 28 May 2017 Last self-enrol date 10 March 2017 Census date 31 March 2017 Last date to withdraw without fail 5 May 2017 Assessment period ends 23 June 2017 Semester 1 contact information
Martin Tomko
Time commitment details
170 hours
Additional delivery details
Last updated: 11 April 2024
Further information
- Texts
Prescribed texts
The students have free access to ESRI ArcGIS via a campus licence. Lectures are recorded (voice and slides).
- Subject notes
LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS
The subject consists of introductory lectures and a number of guest speakers presenting applications of GIS from industry practice. In parallel students are exposed in computer labs to their first encounter with GIS.
INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES
The students have free access to ESRI ArcGIS via a campus licence. Lectures are recorded (voice and slides).
CAREERS / INDUSTRY LINKS
A number of industry representatives across a variety of GIS applications present guest lectures during the semester.
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Informal specialisation Science-credited subjects - new generation B-SCI and B-ENG. Informal specialisation Environments Discipline subjects Informal specialisation Selective subjects for B-BMED Specialisation (formal) Spatial Major Spatial Systems Major Landscape Ecosystem Management Major Master of Engineering (Spatial) Informal specialisation Bachelor of Design Elective Subjects Major Engineering Systems - Breadth options
This subject is available as breadth in the following courses:
- Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
Additional information for this subject
Subject coordinator approval required
Last updated: 11 April 2024