GIS 3405 Spatial Analysis and Modelling

STAFFING:

REQUISITES:

RATIONALE:

The strength of most geographic information systems (GIS) 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 spatial information 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 a functional component of a modern spatial information system.

OBJECTIVES:

The course objectives define the student learning outcomes for a course. The assessment item(s) that may be used to assess student achievement of an objective are shown in parenthesis. On completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. recognise the importance of spatial analysis and modelling for GIS applications. (Assignment 1; Asignment 2 and Exam);
2. define the concepts and techniques involved in spatial analysis and modelling. (Assignment 1; Asignment 2 and Exam);
3. choose and apply appropriate analytical operations and techniques needed for a particular GIS applications. (Assignment 1; Asignment 2 and Exam);
4. critically evaluate the relevance and validity of results from a specific spatial analysis and modelling task. (Assignment 1; Asignment 2 and Exam).

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).

GIS3405 Spatial Analysis and Modelling, external study package, USQ Publication

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:
   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:
   To satisfactorily complete an individual assessment item a student must achieve at least 50% of the marks or a grade of at least C-. (Depending upon the requirements in Statement 4 below, students may not have to satisfactorily complete each assessment item to receive a passing grade in this course.)
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 30% in all of the weighted assessment items, achieve at least 50% in the examination and at least 50% of the total weighted marks available for the course.
5. Method used to combine assessment results to attain final grade:
   The final grades for students will be assigned on the basis of the aggregate of the weighted marks /grades obtained for each of the summative assessment items in the course.
6. Examination information:
   Candidates are allowed to bring only writing and drawing instruments into the Closed 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