ESC-30044 - 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

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are of increasing importance to our understanding and management of environmental and socio-economic problems and people with appropriate GIS skills are in high demand by such diverse sectors as the military, central and local governments, the environmental agencies and the likes of insurance companies and property developers. The module introduces fundamental GIS concepts and capabilities and examines a variety of applications ranging from natural resources management, to population issues and pollution monitoring. In recognition of the applied nature of the course training in the use of industry-standard GIS software is provided and an opportunity is presented for students to apply their skills to addressing a specific case study.

The primary aim is to further student knowledge and comprehension of the concepts of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and to demonstrate ways in which such understanding can be applied to solving real-world problems.

Intended Learning Outcomes

demonstrate a systematic understanding of GIS and its inter-relationship with other fields of study: 1,2
apply GIS knowledge in unfamiliar contexts, synthesising ideas and information to generate novel solutions: 1,2
deploy GIS techniques and processes to evaluate and solve real-world problems: 1
work independently with limited supervision, within agreed guidelines, taking responsibility for accessing support and accepting accountability for determining and achieving personal outcomes: 1,2

Study hours

9 h Scheduled theory sessions
22 h Practical analysis tasks and tutorial sessions, supervised.
44h Engagement with self-led practical work and tutorial videos
15h Directed reading and research
15h Independent reading and research
45h Exercises and assessments preparation and completion

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment