CRP 386
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

Instructor: Barbara Parmenter
Unique Number: 01255

The course will introduce students to geographic information systems (GIS) concepts, applications and analysis in the planning profession. Technologies covered include GIS, relational databases, and web site creation. Topics to be covered include database structure and design issues, sources of information for spatial databases, spatial analysis capabilities, data quality and documentation, and the internet and other technology opportunities for information dissemination and analysis. These topics will all be discussed within the context of GIS for urban and regional planning and management.

Students will work on a semeter long project (see list of project possibilities) using ArcView, a PC-based GIS software program. The project will have three fundamental components: the creation and documentation of a GIS data inventory, an analysis component using various GIS analytical capabilties, and display/presentation component. Lab work will utilize existing Travis County and Central Texas databases, and data downloaded via the Internet from other locations. Students will learn to create their own web sites where they will show the results of their course work.

Grading

Grades will be based on the following six assignments:

Project Plan Overview (10%)
Initial Data Assessment Report (10%)
Completed Data Inventory with Metadata Report and Revised Project Plan (20%)
Data Analysis Plan (10%)
Final Project with Report (30%)
Group and Class Participation \ Attendance (20%)*
* your participation in a group project will be assessed by you and the other group members; participation by students working individually will be assessed by the instructor; class attendance is required except as noted by the instructor during the semester.

Course Prerequisites

Students must have basic familiarity with IBM-compatible PC's, Windows95 file and program management, and the Worldwide Web.