| CODE | LAS1091 | ||||||||||||
| TITLE | Introduction to Cartography: Geographic Information System (GIS), Spatial Analysis and Drone Mapping | ||||||||||||
| UM LEVEL | I - Introductory Level | ||||||||||||
| MQF LEVEL | 5 | ||||||||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 4 | ||||||||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Centre for the Liberal Arts and Sciences | ||||||||||||
| DESCRIPTION | This unit provides students with a solid foundation in the core concepts and practical applications of cartography, GIS, spatial analysis, and drone mapping. The study-unit begins by introducing students to the fundamental principles of cartography, emphasizing the importance of map design, symbolization, and representation. Students will learn how to effectively communicate spatial information through maps. The unit then delves into the world of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), where students will gain hands-on experience using GIS software to manipulate, analyze, and visualize spatial data. They will learn to create, edit, and manage datasets, as well as perform standard geospatial analysis to solve real-world problems. Furthermore, the study-unit explores the role of drones in modern mapping practices. Students will learn about drone technology & legal background, aerial photography, remote sensing, and photogrammetry. They will acquire practical skills in planning and executing drone-based data collection missions, as well as processing and interpreting the acquired data for mapping and analysis purposes. Throughout the unit, critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be nurtured as students are challenged to apply GIS, spatial analysis, and drone mapping techniques to address various scenarios. By the end of the study-unit, students will have a comprehensive understanding of cartography, GIS, spatial analysis, and drone mapping, along with the ability to effectively collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data for diverse applications in fields such as urban planning, criminology and environmental management. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Map Reading: Demonstrate the ability to accurately interpret diverse map formats, identifying key elements, such as scales, legends, and coordinate systems, to navigate and understand geographical information effectively; - Maps Design: Demonstrate proficiency in creating visually appealing maps by employing standard cartographic techniques, symbolization, and design principles, producing maps that effectively communicate information to the intended audience; - GIS software for Mapping: Demonstrate technical competence in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software to manipulate, acquire, and visualize spatial data, integrating various data sources to create comprehensive and informative maps; - Data Quality in Mapping: Demonstrate a clear understanding of traditional and modern data collection methods, emphasizing the significance of data quality and reliability in spatial analysis, employing techniques for data quality; - Drone Technology: Demonstrate expertise in the applications of drone technology in mapping and data collection, including understanding of health and safety measures, legal backgrounds around drone use, capture of aerial imagery, production of remote sensing data, photogrammetry, and the integration of drone data into mapping projects for increased precision and data quality. 2. Skills By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Implement map-making techniques, including cartographic design principles, symbolization, and map layout, enabling effective communication of spatial information; - Use practical skills in utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software to create, edit, analyze, and visualize spatial data for mapping and geospatial analysis purposes; - Perform drone surveys for data collection, including planning and executing drone missions, capturing aerial imagery, and processing the acquired data for mapping and analysis; - Collect spatial data, including various methods and technologies, ensuring the collection of accurate and reliable spatial data; - Combine transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and spatial analysis skills that can be applied to a wide range of disciplines and real-world scenarios. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: - Aber, J. S., Marzolff, I., Ries, J., & Aber, S. E. W. (2019). Small-format aerial photography and UAS imagery: Principles, techniques and geoscience applications. Academic Press. (Available at Main Library General TR810 .A24 2019) - Heywood, Carver, Cornelius, Carver, Steve, & Cornelius, Sarah. (2011). An introduction to geographical information systems (4th ed.). Pearson Prentice Hall. (Available at Faculty of Arts Library General G70.212 .H49 2011) |
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| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture, Fieldwork and Seminar | ||||||||||||
| METHOD OF ASSESSMENT |
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| LECTURER/S | Saviour Formosa Arthur Lamoliere (Co-ord.) |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2024/5. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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