Online Geography 2020-2021

This module will provide students with an introduction to UAV, airborne and satellite remote sensing, digital image processing, and softcopy photogrammetry to extract environmental data and information from digital imagery, and a number of monitoring and mapping applications. Students will learn how to acquire UAV imagery, and to process it into information as part of a group practical mapping exercise.

This module will introduce students to a number of introductory and fundamental geospatial tools and techniques for displaying and analysing geospatial data. This will include: navigation, measurement, spatial queries, geocoding, scripting, buffering, digitising, and overlay analysis. A number of ‘real world’ examples will be used to illustrate the application of the tools for data exploration, data capture, simple spatial analysis, mapping and visualisation. Emphasis will be placed on obtaining a sound understanding of the principles of each technique, as well as the importance of selecting the correct approach to a problem, analysing the data, and interpretation of the results.

This
module will introduce students to the literature, concepts, theories, knowledge
and understanding of the origins, history, development, and evolution of
Geographical Information Systems. This will include a timeline of key
developments in GIS theory and practice; technological developments of GIS from
its geographical origins to the commercial location-based technologies of
today; the underlying geographical principles and fundamentals of GIS;
discussion of GIS as a tool or technique, a discipline or science; and some of
the major developments that have led to mobile location-based technologies.
Finally, key future developments of this rapidly evolving technology with some
example applications.

Today people from all walks of life use GIS maps on their desktops, via the web, on tablets and smartphones. The development of Web-GIS or Online Mapping has led to the move from the desktop standalone GIS software to the Internet.  In so doing it has revolutionised accessibility to geospatial data and information. Spatial data can rapidly be transformed into web-maps or services that are 'mashed' up with different layers into a web-GIS, Maps on the web have also provided a new paradigm for how people everywhere can access and use geographic data and information. Web-GIS has led to a more flexible and agile workflow and provides a platform for integrating GIS with other business systems, and has enabled cross-organizational collaboration. Web GIS allows organizations to properly manage all their geographic knowledge. At the heart of web GIS is a mapcentric content management system. Web mapping is more than just web cartography; it is a service by which consumers may choose what the map will show. 

This module will provide students with an introduction to UAV, airborne and satellite remote sensing, digital image processing, and softcopy photogrammetry to extract environmental data and information from digital imagery, and a number of monitoring and mapping applications. Students will learn how to acquire UAV imagery, and to process it into information as part of a group practical mapping exercise.

This module will examine some of the many different applications of the geospatial technologies. It comprises two sections: 1) invited lectures from external guest speakers on a selection of current GIS applications embracing academic, commercial and research topics on e.g. physical and human geography, planning, archaeology, geology, computer science, and specialist applications from amongst others: the renewable energy sector, oil and gas industry, offshore surveying, marine spatial planning, precision agriculture, environmental management, local authorities, and the business sector; 2) the execution of a practical-based mini GIS project chosen from a list of topics of specific interest to the student.

This module will introduce students to a number of introductory and fundamental geospatial tools and techniques for displaying and analysing geospatial data. This will include: navigation, measurement, spatial queries, geocoding, scripting, buffering, digitising, and overlay analysis. A number of ‘real world’ examples will be used to illustrate the application of the tools for data exploration, data capture, simple spatial analysis, mapping and visualisation. Emphasis will be placed on obtaining a sound understanding of the principles of each technique, as well as the importance of selecting the correct approach to a problem, analysing the data, and interpretation of the results.

Central to the application of Geographical Information (GI) in the 'real world' is the acquisition of a fundamental knowledge and understanding of the 'data into information’ pathway using GIS and the geospatial information technologies. This module introduces students to a number of examples of both theory and application of geographical data and information, and the relationships to remote sensing, cartography. visualisation, multimedia, global positioning systems (GPS), mobile GIS, and the Internet. A practical study of mobile GIS and Smartphone Apps for field data collection is included. A practical introduction to the Idrisi GIS software is used for the course.

This course aims at progressing knowledge of spatial analysis tools in GIS. Map Algebra techniques will be applied to solve complex GIS projects. Part one is focussed on solving one complex spatial analysis exercise using commonly used GIS software emphasising how to best present results.

Part 2 focuses on optimising the planning and management of a GIS project. Attention is given to time management and potential sources of uncertainty when planning a GIS project. Through a series of practical exercises students will acquire the necessary skills for designing projects that address the needs of a target client or audience.

The student will select, undertake and complete a research-based dissertation project. In choosing and approving a suitable topic, consideration will be given to the student's background and skills, their career interests, suitable data availability, and the possibility of an external placement. Successful completion of the project requires reference to and integration of the various different taught elements, independent research, together with a general knowledge of all aspects of GIS and where appropriate different disciplines. The dissertation project is undertaken by the student with the guidance of a supervisor from the University and in some cases an external advisor.