Introduces Geographic Information Systems (GIS) which display, store, edit, and analyze spatial information. Topics will include data input, management, and manipulation to create maps and perform spatial data analyses using ArcGIS. Previous GIS experience is not required, but students must be proficient with Windows OS.
- Basic cartography (map making)
- Geospatial data models (vector, raster)
- Coordinate systems (UTM, State Plane, GCS (i.e., Lat/Long))
- Data collection, transfer and storage
- Digitizing
- Data collection using GNSS (e.g., GPS)
- Exchange formats including shapefile and KML
- Storage formats (TIFF and geodatabase)
- GIS Applications: How to answer geospatial questions using:
- Joins, relates, tabular queries
- Spatial operations and overlays
- LiDAR and other high-resolution raster data (i.e., satellite)
- Point interpolation methods (optional, but recommended)
- GIS Applications and how they relate to one or more of the following:
- Social justice or sustainability
- Natural resources management
- Public health
The course instructor, with input from the department, will select the appropriate text(s) and reference materials for the course. Text(s) selected for the course should be, to a degree, reflective of text selections for similar course offerings at other institutions. Instructors are encouraged, but not required, to explore open-source text(s) and materials as an option.
ArcGIS software - WVC has a site license for ArcGIS Pro which can be checked out to 50 students at a time; license needs annual renewal. Students can download the software to home computer.
General Statements
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If you need a referral to that office or have further questions, please contact the Director of Student Access to assist you. Following through on these services can help you be more successful in your academic endeavors at WVC. (Note: the Director of Student Access will require appropriate documentation of disability. The use of that office is voluntary).”
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Any student who engages in any form of academic dishonesty may be subject to discipline. Common instances of academic dishonesty include (but are not limited to): cheating; fabrication; plagiarism; facilitating, aiding or abetting others in academic dishonesty; collusion; or resubmitting work previously submitted for another course without instructor permission. Academic dishonesty may be subject to both academic sanctions and/or code of conduct sanctions.