Course Content and Outcome Guide for GEO 264
- Date:
- 07-JUN-2012
- Posted by:
- Curriculum Office
- Course Number:
- GEO 264
- Course Title:
- Maps & Geospatial Concepts
- Credit Hours:
- 4
- Lecture hours:
- 30
- Lecture/Lab hours:
- 0
- Lab hours:
- 30
- Special Fee:
- $12
Course Description
Introduces principles and concepts needed to understand the use and interpretation of maps, geographic information systems & science. Includes: reference systems, coordinate systems, map projections, types of maps, geographic data, scale, data visualization, and map interpretation. Serves as the foundation for the GIS course sequence. Prerequisite: WR 115, RD 115 and MTH 20 or equivalent placement test scores. Audit available.Intended Outcomes for the course
Upon successful completion of Geography 264 the student will be able to:
A. Apply underlying map concepts to geographic information science (GIS)
B. Read and interpret a wide range of maps
C. Proficiently use mapping and GIS terminology
D. Use an understanding of cartography to examine cultural and environmental issues
Course Activities and Design
The material in this course will be presented in a computer lab setting through classroom lecture, discussion, software demonstration, and computer?based labs. Other methods may be implemented such as research papers and small group work.
Outcome Assessment Strategies
Students will be expected to demonstrate mastery of themes, concepts, issues, competencies and skills by any combination of the following:
A. Written results of class labs and exercises
B. Completion of a midterm exam
C. Completion of a final project
Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)
Themes, Concepts, Issues:
A. Types of Maps
B. Cartographic Representation
C. Coordinate Systems
D. Map Projections
E. Quantitative & Qualitative Data
F. Map Reading & Design
G. Map interpretation
H. Map Elements
Competencies and Skills:
A. Identify and define mapping and GIS terminology
B. Proficiently interpret a wide variety of maps
C. Recognize spatial data errors and (in)accuracies
D. Identify purposes and distinguish characteristics of map projections
E. Use of scale on maps and in spatial data
F. Understand geographic and projected coordinate systems