ESC-20132 - Module Specification
School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

Literally, the term geography; means Earth-writing and this module examines the diverse manners of representation of the human and physical worlds. We will explore the ways in which these have changed as geography has evolved as a discipline as well as the diverse methods used by geographers to represent the world. Particular attention will be paid to Geographical Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing and spatial data analysis. The module will provide powerful analytical and mapping skills that underpin research and applications in Geography, environment and other disciplines. Furthermore, in recent years mapping has undergone a revolution through the development of GIS combined with advances in imaging the earth through remote sensing technology, and this module will develop the practical skills required to capture, store, manage, manipulate, analyse and visualise spatial data. These skills are important across all sectors in business, NGOs, government, and academia.

1. To provide a foundation in Geographical Information Science by completing a series of practicals related to human and natural processes.
2. To develop advanced knowledge and skills in GIS and remote sensing applications which are currently at the forefront of human and physical Geography.
3. To promote a detailed understanding of GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data collection and analysis.

Intended Learning Outcomes

describe the fundamental principles and advanced aspects of geographic information and remote sensing system: 1,2
use a range of specialist geographical techniques to collect, analyse, present and interpret a range of primary and secondary data: 1,2
evaluate the quality of geographical and remote sensing data and determine the most effective techniques for the analysis and presentation of these data: 1,2
synthesise, and evaluate the results obtained by applying GIS analytical techniques to a problem-solving context within a GIS/remote sensing framework and make valid conclusions: 2
critically interpret the images created from remote sensing data and design maps with effective cartographic communication for a range of applications pertinent to Human and Physical Geography: 2

Study hours

10 h scheduled lectures
25h Weekly practical sessions
15h Directed wider reading, online and library
2h Clinic support session
40h Advanced preparation of computer work in support of practicals and project work
15h Independent wider reading, online and library
43h Preparation and writing of module assessments and exercises

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment