James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

GE5505:03

Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

Townsville, Cairns HECS Band 2

26 hours lectures, 26 hours practicals. Semester 2.

Staff: Ms M Puotinen (Townsville campus); Professor D Gillieson (Cairns campus).

This subject aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), as well as hands-on experience using a GIS to address a ‘real-world’ environmental issue.

Learning Objectives:

  1. understand the basic geography of the earth and how it is mapped;
  2. understand the basic spatial questions that can be addressed with GIS;
  3. understand the key components and tools of any GIS program and how they work;
  4. understand the key issues associated with using GIS;
  5. gain practical experience using GIS to solve a real world problem.

Assessment by on-course assessment (40%); examination (40%); literature review (20%).