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This course reviews basic GIS concepts such as data types, file formats, coordinate systems, analysis techniques, and map display. Later in the course we cover more advanced concepts such as GPS/GIS integration, on-screen digitizing, overlay analysis, conditional probability assessments, and raster modeling in relation to natural resource management. The course focuses on laboratory exercises with the goal of giving students hands on experience in using GIS, particularly in natural resource applications.

Course Structure

As you can see from the Lesson Schedule, this course is divided into 10 general topics. We will spend 1 week on each topic. Each Lesson is divided into 1-2 modules. In each Lesson you will find the following information:

1. A list of learning objectives for the module to let you know where you should be headed.
2. Reading assignments.
3. In most cases, a PowerPoint presentation.
4. A demonstration video clip and a hands-on GIS lab exercise that includes a homework assignment.
5. Self-tests 
6. A total of two quizzes (in Lesson 6 and 9) covering material from the above sources and submission of a final project (Lesson 10) are components required for completing this course.

SOFTWARE

• Web Browser with Internet Access
  • Internet Explorer
  • Firefox
  • Netscape 7.2
  • Mozilla
• ArcGIS with Spatial Analyst Extension
  You can obtain a 1 year copy of the ArcGIS software from Michael Lorenz at the UI bookstore (michaellorenz45@yahoo.com).
  When you install ArcGIS be sure to run a COMPLETE install rather than a Typical. This installs the Spatial Analyst extension!
• If you are trying to run the ArcInfo version of ArcGIS on the Vista operating system and are having problems with the license manager, try this link (copy the link to a new Internet window if the hyperlink does not work): http://forums.esri.com/Thread.asp?c=93&f=1148&t=214132&mc=6
• Microsoft Excel or similar spreadsheet program
• Acrobat Reader
• Flash Player
• WinZip

HARDWARE

• Access to a computer that is connected to the Internet

REQUIRED READING

• Karl Chang, Introduction to Geographic Information Systems, 3^rd Edition (McGrawHill, 2005).