Last modified: 27 Feb 2018 17:35
This module will introduce students to the important role that people play in the successful development and implementation of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technology and software. This includes consideration of the human element involved in the collection, input, storage and management of geospatial data for current and future applications in education, government and commerce. Students will consider some of the different backgrounds, skills and expertise required: by technical staff (e.g. programmers, and database engineers) involved in developing GIS software; by those responsible for developing software interfaces for the end-user community; in the development of new GIS products and new application areas; by those who are responsible for purchasing and implementing GIS and related technologies in the workplace; by current and future applications; and the knowledge and understanding required to make use of GIS as a desktop and mobile tool.
| Study Type | Postgraduate | Level | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | First Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Online | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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This module will introduce students to the important role that people play in the successful development and implementation of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technology and software. This includes consideration of the human element involved in the collection, input, storage and management of geospatial data for current and future applications in education, government and commerce. Students will consider some of the different backgrounds, skills and expertise required: by technical staff (e.g. programmers, and database engineers) involved in developing GIS software; by those responsible for developing software interfaces for the end-user community; in the development of new GIS products and new application areas; by those who are responsible for purchasing and implementing GIS and related technologies in the workplace; by current and future applications; and the knowledge and understanding required to make use of GIS as a desktop and mobile tool. Aside from the practical implementation of GIS, the success of the technology is also dependent upon the expertise contributed by computer science and Information Technology (IT) experts needed for system support and application domain specialists. Another aspect explored is that of the organisational requirements for GIS technology and the corporate GIS. Finally, the role that people play in participatory GIS exercises provides insight into how people from very different backgrounds can successfully interact with a complex technology in planning and decision-making scenarios. A series of case-studies will showcase the role that people play at different stages in the development, evolution and application of GIS. This will include some of the following as examples: police forces and crime mapping; emergency services and response; nature conservation and habitat mapping; education and training; transport networks and traffic routing; siting and location; renewable energy; hydrography and offshore survey; and marine spatial planning. The main emphasis throughout the module is that whatever the GIS application, the user is ultimately the key to a successful GIS implementation and use.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
100% Continuous Assessment. A Term Paper (60% - 3500 words) and Magazine Article (40% - 1000 words).
There are no assessments for this course.
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