GIS 3404 Geographic Data Visualisation

STAFFING:

RATIONALE:

Geographic data visualisation offers great benefits for the spatial information professionals. Using computer-based methods and the human visual system, geographic data visualisation technologies provide powerful tools for presenting, interpreting and analysing of spatial data. The identification of spatial patterns and relationships within spatial data, in either 2-D, 3-D or 4-D (temporal) representation, or by using multimedia technologies, can be enhanced tremendously by visualisation techniques. Thus, it is essential that students and professionals in the spatial sciences gain understanding of the concepts, techniques, software and hardware of this important field of study and application.

SYNOPSIS:

The course is designed to introduce students to computer assisted geographic data (or cartographic) visualisation methods and processes. Key topics include: Terrain and 3-D visualisation and analysis; temporal and non-temporal catographic animation; multi-media cartography; and application and case studies.

OBJECTIVES:

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

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts of geographic data (or cartographic) visualisation and communications;
2. Evaluate the function of the procedures and tools that support the temporal and three dimensional (3D) display and animation of spatial data;
3. Generate, edit and output simple or multimedia maps using computer assisted hardware and software; and
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the processess and presentation methodology of multimedia geographic data visualisation enhancements.

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).

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

Mapping Sciences Institute, Cartography, Mapping Sciences Institute, Canberra. Spatial Sciences Institute, Spatial Science Queensland, SSI, Brisbane

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:
   It is the students' responsibility to attend and participate appropriately in all activities (such as lectures, tutorials, laboratories and practical work) scheduled for them, and 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:
   (i) To complete each of the assignments satisfactorily, students must obtain at least 50% of the marks available (or at least a grade of C-) for each assignment. (ii) To pass Assignment 2 students will be required to achieve the communication standard stipulated in the Introductory Book. (iii) To complete the examination satisfactorily, students must obtain at least 50% of the marks available (or at least a grade of C-) for the examination.
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:
   (i) To be assured of receiving a passing grade a student must submit all of the summative assessment items, achieve at least 45% in the examination and at least 50% of the available weighted marks for the summative assessment items. (ii) Students who do not qualify for a Passing grade may, at the discretion of the Examiner, be assigned additional work to demonstrate to the Examiner that they have achieved the required standard. It is expected that such students will have gained at least 45% of the total marks available for all 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