GIS 3405 Spatial Analysis and Modelling

STAFFING:

REQUISITES:

RATIONALE:

The strength of most geographic and land information systems (GIS/LIS) depends on their capability to perform spatial analysis and modelling. Considered as the "heart" of GIS, spatial analysis and modelling makes GIS a powerful technology for land, environmental, and resource management. Thus, it is essential and advantageous for GIS and other professionals to be aware of the concepts, techniques, and applications involved in spatial analysis and modelling.

SYNOPSIS:

Students will be introduced to the concepts, techniques, and applications of spatial analysis and modelling. Topics include: spatial statistics; overlay analysis; map algebra and cartographic modelling; spatial interpolation; surface analysis and terrain modelling; proximity analysis; network analysis; fuzzy sets; and spatial analysis issues and trends. Emphasis will be placed on how spatial analysis and modelling is used in practical applications, and as a functional component of a modern GIS/LIS. GIS software will be used to demonstrate and reinforce the various analytical and modelling concepts.

OBJECTIVES:

On completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. recognise the importance of spatial analysis and modelling for GIS/LIS applications;
2. define the concepts and techniques involved in spatial analysis and modelling;
3. choose and apply appropriate analytical operations and techniques needed for a particular GIS/LIS applications;
4. make appropriate use of a GIS software supporting spatial analysis and modelling functions;
5. critically evaluate the relevance and validity of results from a specific spatial analysis and modelling task.

TOPICS:

TEXT and MATERIALS required to be PURCHASED or accessed:

ALL textbooks and materials are available for purchase from USQ BOOKSHOP (unless otherwise stated). Orders may be placed via secure internet, free fax 1800642453, phone 07 46312742 (within Australia), or mail. Overseas students should fax +61 7 46311743, or phone +61 7 46312742. For costs, further details, and internet ordering, use the 'Textbook Search' facility at http://bookshop.usq.edu.au click 'Semester', then enter your 'Course Code' (no spaces).

Access to TNTLite software is required for this course. The software is available from the USQ Bookshop on CD.

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

STUDENT WORKLOAD REQUIREMENTS:

ASSESSMENT DETAILS:

NOTES:

1.

Student Administration will advise students of the dates of their examinations during the semester.

IMPORTANT ASSESSMENT INFORMATION

1. Attendance requirements:
   There are no attendance requirements for this course. However, it is the students' responsibility to study all material provided to them or required to be accessed by them to maximise their chance of meeting the objectives of the course and to be informed of course-related activities and administration.
2. Requirements for students to complete each assessment item satisfactorily:
   To complete each of the assessment items satisfactorily, students must obtain at least 50% of the marks available (or at least a grade of C-) for each assessment item.
3. Penalties for late submission of required work:
   If students submit assignments after the due date without prior approval then a penalty of 20% of the total marks available for the assignment will apply for each working day late.
4. Requirements for student to be awarded a passing grade in the course:
   To be assured of receiving a passing grade a student must achieve at least 45% in each of the summative assessments and at least 50% of the available weighted marks for the summative assessment items.
5. Method used to combine assessment results to attain final grade:
   The final grades for students will be assigned on the basis of the weighted aggregate of the marks (or grades) obtained for each of the summative assessment items in the course.
6. Examination information:
   In a Closed Examination, candidates are allowed to bring only writing and drawing instruments into the examination.
7. Examination period when Deferred/Supplementary examinations will be held:
   Any Deferred or Supplementary examinations for this course will be held during the examination period at the end of the semester of the next offering of this course.
8. University Regulations:
   Students should read USQ Regulations 5.1 Definitions, 5.6. Assessment, and 5.10 Academic Misconduct for further information and to avoid actions which might contravene University Regulations. These regulations can be found at the URL http://www.usq.edu.au/corporateservices/calendar/part5.htm or in the current USQ Handbook.

ASSESSMENT NOTES