GIS DIGITAL INFORMATION:

Uses, Resources and Software Tools

INLS 110-111

Fall Semester 2003

Teaching Fellow: Mary Ruvane

 

 

LOCATIONS AND TIME  (FALL 2003):

Monday - SILS Lab 117; Wednesday - Manning 304; 3:30-4:45 Monday & Wednesday

 

PRE/CO-REQUISITES: There are no prerequisites for this course. Knowledge of basic computer file manipulation in a networked environment, including ftp skills, are strongly recommended.

 

COURSE CREDITS:   3 credit hours

 

COURSE INSTRUCTOR:

Mary Ruvane, Teaching Fellow, PhD candidate SILS

Mary earned a BFA from Syracuse University and received her MSIS from UNC-CH in May of 2002.   Prior to enrolling at UNC Mary was employed for over 20 years in project management, primarily within the field of Architectural/Engineering.   Her past experience with Computer Aided Design and database systems led to her interest in Geographic Information Systems while at SILS.   She has completed several independent studies in GIS, developed a GIS web site for Davis Library, as well taken GIS courses from UNC's Geography Department, Anthropology Department, and ATN. Mary's PhD research interests currently include spatial data accessibility, geographic digital libraries, visualization, GIS user characteristics, user interface design, metadata and Geographic Information System education standards.

 

COURSE PURPOSE:

This course is designed for graduate students, in both LS and ILS tracts, desiring an overview of the information needs and data considerations faced by GIS users.  

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer-based tool for managing, analyzing, and graphically displaying spatial information. There are many applications for GIS ranging from business analysis, environmental appraisal, land-use planning, real estate, site selection, transportation routing, and much more. This course will introduce the student to terminology, GIS data models, general cartography, basic tools, data sources, data manipulation, as well provide basic level hands-on experience using GIS software from ESRI (ArcGIS® v8.x). Emphasis will be placed on understanding various disciplines utilizing GISs for problem solving, locating and selecting appropriate data, and resources available for further exploration.

 

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

Ideally this course will provide a conceptual base of knowledge from which to build further expertise in GIS.   Each student will (1) become familiar with various uses of GIS in business and industry (2) be exposed to GIS software tools (3) and learn about spatial data characteristics.

 

REQUIRED TEXT:

Clarke, Keith C. (2003). Getting Started with Geographical Information Systems. 4th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.

 

 

COURSE SCHEDULE & TOPICAL OUTLINE:


AUGUST 27 (Wed): Introduction


General introduction to the course content, instructor, and each other. A review of expectations, course objectives and assignments will be covered. An Overview of What a GIS is? and its history will be presented.


Read before next class:


Slides: GIS Overview & History


SEPTEMBER 1 (Mon): UNC Holiday/LABOR DAY – no class


SEPTEMBER 3: GIS Roots in Cartography


Understanding maps and how they are produced is essential before exploring the characteristics of spatial data further. Cartographic principles including map symbols, scale, generalization, datums, and coordinate systems will be reviewed.


Read before next class:

  • Required Text - Chapter 2 (GIS's Roots in Cartography)
  • Map projection Overview - Peter H. Dana <http://www.colorado.edu/geography/gcraft/notes/mapproj/mapproj.html>
  • Geodetic Datum Overview - by Peter H. Dana <http://www.colorado.edu/geography/gcraft/notes/datum/datum.html>


Optional Reading:


Slides: Understanding Maps


Assignment: North Carolina Geodetic Survey
Explore the NCGS web site. Use the NCGS Database link and search Orange County to display a list of geodetic stations located there. Bring me a tracing of the marker titled Station: UNIVERSITY. Do there appear to be other survey markers on campus? BONUS OPPORTUNITY: Bonus credit will be given throughout the semester for tracings submitted of other geodetic points you've found on campus or in Orange County.


SEPTEMBER 8 (Mon): Lab 1


Today we meet in the SILS lab (Rm 117) to learn about access to ArcGIS applications via campus AFS, SILS GIS rules, ArcGIS tutorials, and assign computers.


Lab 1 goals: Learn how to navigate UNC's campus wide 'isis' server to access the ArcGIS application and your 'isis' personal directory via OpenAFS client. Understand how to FTP files over the campus network.


Using AFS and ESRI Virtual Campus Modules


SEPTEMBER 10: GIS Roots in Cartography (continued)


We will continue with our review of cartographic principles including coordinate systems (spherical and rectangular), map projections (Conformal, Equal-area, Equidistant, Azimuthal), data dimensions (temporal, thematic, spatial), map scale and map layout/design.


Read before next class:


Slides: Understanding Maps (continued)


SEPTEMBER 15 (Mon): Lab 2


Lab 2 goals: Understand how geographic data is organized and displayed based on "layers". Learn how geographic data relates to its descriptive information through linked tables. Get a better understanding of topology in GIS (i.e., how features relate to one another). Recognize the differences between: ArcCatalog and ArcMap--which to use for previewing data, finding data, locating metadata, and displaying maps. Become aware of a few geoprocessing tasks on spatial data.

MODULE 1 (Learning ArcGIS I): BASICS OF ArcGIS
Lesson 1: Introducing GIS
(Exercise: Use ArcGIS to explore geographic data)
Lesson 2: Introducing ArcGIS
(Exercise: Explore ArcMap and ArcCatalog)

SEPTEMBER 17 (Rm 214): Uses of GIS


Traditionally, computerized GIS's have been used to document and analyze problems of environmental concern, support utility company infrastructures, aid governments with capturing geographic data digitally, and by disciplines in related cartographic or geological fields. Today business managers, marketing strategists, financial analysts, and professional planners have discovered the benefit of a GIS for organizing, analyzing and presenting their business data. We will review various examples of how GIS is being applied in business today.


Read before next class:

  • Required Text - Chapter 9 (GIS in Action)
  • Geography Matters - whitepaper by ESRI
    <http://ils.unc.edu/~ruvam/INLS110_111/fall03/readings/ESRI_geographymatters.pdf>


Optional Reading:


Slides: GIS usage & Tools

Assignment: Find an article in a journal, newspaper, or other source that descibes the use of GIS in action. Be prepared to discuss your findings in class next week.


SEPTEMBER 22 (Mon): Lab 3


Lab 3 goals: Learn how to display and symbolize data by creating a simple map. Learn how to use ArcMap to look at map coordinates and geographic reference information. Learn how to change map projections, and make measurements to observe how different projections can affect distance and shape.

MODULE 2 (Learning ArcGIS I): Displaying and Georeferencing Data
Lesson 1: Displaying data
(Exercise: Display and symbolize data in ArcMap)
Lesson 2: Introducing ArcGIS
(Exercise: Understanding georeferenced data)


SEPTEMBER 24: Topic TBD - Guest Lecturer?


SEPTEMBER 29 (Mon): Lab 4


Lab 4 goals: Browse ArcCatalog and ArcMap to view several spatial data formats (e.g., databases, shapefiles, geodatabases, raster data). Know how to convert data from a shapefile to a geodatabase. Learn how to connect to the Geography Network from ArcCatalog, preview data, then bring data from ArcCatalog into ArcMap. Learn how to use some of the tools available on the Editor toolbar to edit features while in ArcMap.

MODULE 3 (Learning ArcGIS I): Working with Spatial Data
Lesson 1: Spatial data formats
(Exercises: Work with spatial data; & Geog. Network data)
Lesson 2: Editing spatial data in ArcGIS
(Exercise: Edit features with the Editor toolbar)


OCTOBER 1 (Rm 214): Spatial data structure (Vector)


Today we will be discussing the most common type of GIS data representing geographic locations in the form of shapes: polygons , lines and points .   Polygons are used mostly for large areas such as countries, states, census blocks, and zip code neighborhoods. Lines frequently depict roads, rivers, and railways. Points represent individual locations including state capitals, historic landmarks, or business sites.


Read before next class:

  • Required Text - Chapter 3 (Maps as Numbers)
  • Vector Graphics Definition <http://searchwebservices.techtarget.com/sDefinition/0,,sid26_gci213284,00.html >
  • Vector Data Model <http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/geology/courses/ge470/gistop_8a.htm>


Slides: Vector Data Models


OCTOBER 6 (Mon): Lab 5


Lab 5 goals: Learn how to view and update feature attributes individually, or with the Field Calculator for global updates. Learn how to join feature attribute tables with demographic data stored in dBASE tables and to query and display layers based the joined tables. Learn how to connect nonfeature-based tables to feature attribute tables through joins and relates. Understand the difference between joins and relates.

MODULE 4 (Learning ArcGIS I): Working with Attributes
Lesson 1: Displaying and manipulating attributes
(Exercises: View, edit, and update attributes)
Lesson 2: Working with tables
(Exercises: Join tables, explore table formats & create a relate)


OCTOBER 8: Spatial data structure (Raster)


Unlike vector data, raster data is broken into individual units (grid cells, pixels,points, or voxels) of identical size. In a raster file a single highway may be defined by millions of grid cells, instead of a single line object. Each unit descriptor in a raster file can potentially contain specific information related to that particular units features.


Read before next class:


Slides: Raster Data Models


OCTOBER 13 (Mon): Lab 6


Lab 6 goals: Learn how to add map tips, identify features, find a specific feature, select a feature, and set a bookmark. Develope basic querying skills using different techniques. Learn how to create a selection layer.

MODULE 5 (Learning ArcGIS I): Querying Your Database
Lesson 1: Getting information from maps
(Exercises: Examine data in ArcMap; query the database )
Lesson 2: Finding features using spatial relationships
(Exercises: Create selected sets; Query and analyze data)


OCTOBER 15 (Rm 214): Digital Data Types – TIGER, Census, DLGs


The features and uses of US Census Bureau TIGER data and USGS Digital Line Graphs will be reviewed today. TIGER data represents a vast array of statistical information collected by the US Government for reporting demographic, economic and other valuable thematic attributes concerning the US population.


Assigned readings:


Slides: Tiger & Digital Line Graphs (DLGs)

Final Project: Requirements and Discussion


OCTOBER 20 (Mon): Lab 7


Lab 7 goals: Learn how to work in ArcMap's Layout View for composing a map. Understand how to change the size and set the scale of a data frame, how to create a map inset, and add map elements including a title, legend, neatlines, borders, and background colors. Also learn how to work with predesigned map templates and how to copy/paste layers between data frames.

MODULE 6 (Learning ArcGIS I):Presenting Data in ArcGIS
Lesson 1: Introduction to mapping
(Exercises: Create a map using ArcMap)
Lesson 2: Introduction to map design and production
(Exercises: Use a template to create a layout)


OCTOBER 22: Digital Data Types DEMs & more (Fall break 5:00pm)


The features and uses of Digital Elevation Models, Satellite Images, LULC will be explored in today's class.


Read before next class:


Slides: DEMs, LULC, & Soils


OCTOBER 27 (Mon): Lab 8


Lab 8 goals:In this module, you will learn: what ArcGIS Spatial Analyst is and the types of analysis you can perform, what spatial analysis and spatial modeling are, how to set up your analysis environment, how to convert between feature and raster data, and how to reclassify your data.

MODULE 1 (Learning ArcGIS Spatial Analyst): Getting Started
Lesson 1: Using the Spatial Analyst extension
(Exercise: Convert vector data to raster data)
(Exercise: Reclassify an elevation grid)
(Exercise: Reclassify a grid using a remap table)
(Exercise: Reclassify data to a common scale)

OCTOBER 29: Data Providers (Guest Lecturer: Amanda Henley)


Who are the key providers of GIS data and where can the general public go to locate the data they need? The government's role as a major producer of data will be highlighted.


Handout: Selected List of Data Providers

Excel File: Federal Gov't & Commercial Suppliers


Assigned readings:


Slides: GIS at Davis Library



NOVEMBER 3 (Mon): Lab 9


Lab 9 goals: In this module, you will learn how to: generate contours, create hillshades, calculate slope, calculate aspect and calculate viewshed.

MODULE 2 (Learning ArcGIS Spatial Analyst): Analyzing Surfaces
Lesson 1: Visualizing and extracting information from surface data
(Exercise: Calculate slope and aspect)
(Exercise: Calculate viewshed)


NOVEMBER 5 (Rm 214): GIS Analysis Functions


The data is only one part of the equation in a GIS system. Analyzing the selected data is the true power behind a GIS. Analysis functions including overlay, neighborhood operations, spatial interpolation, buffering, network analysis, spread functions, stream functions, viewshed analysis and Illumination will be discussed today.


Read before next class:


Slides: GIS Analysis Functions



NOVEMBER 10 (Mon): Lab 10


Lab 10 goals: In this module, you will learn how to use Map Algebra operators and functions to build your own expressions in the Raster Calculator. You will also learn how to perform some of the most useful tasks in Map Algebra, such as conditional processing, testing for NoData, and setting cells to NoData.

MODULE 3 (ArcGIS Spatial Analyst): Working with Map Algebra
Lesson 1: Building Map Algebra expressions
(Exercise: Use conditional processing)
(Exercise: Create a mask to clip a raster)
(Exercise: Merge and mosaic grids)


NOVEMBER 12 (Rm 214): Metadata


Today's topic will cover the importance of metadata for insuring access to, and determining "fitness-for-use" of, geospatial data sets.


Scan these resources before next class:


Slides: GIS Metadata (CSDGM)


Homework Exercise: Explore NSDI Clearinghouse



NOVEMBER 17 (Mon): Lab 11


Lab 11 goals: You can use interpolation to model the surface of a feature or a phenomenon—all you need are sample points, an interpolation method, and an understanding of the feature or the phenomenon being modeled. This module introduces you to interpolation, as well as to some common interpolation methods.

MODULE 4 (ArcGIS Spatial Analyst): Interpolating Raster Surfaces
Lesson 1: Creating surfaces using interpolation
(Exercise: Model snow depth with IDW)
(Exercise: Model limestone formation near earthquake faults)
(Exercise: Create a terrain surface with Spline)


November 19 (Rm 214): Satellite and GPS Data


Today's topic will cover satellite images, spectral resolutions, and an introduction into the Global Positioning System (GPS) as a data-capturing tool.


Read before next class:


Slides: Satellites and GPS




NOVEMBER 24 (Meet in LAB): ***LECTURE*** Important GIS Tools


Gazetteers are noted for assistance with locating longitude and latitude coordinates, a featured search method of some mapping tools. The use of Gazetteers & Locators, along with other invaluable tools that support the use of GIS will be covered.


Assignment:

  • Lab 12 (Mapping Distance & Density): Due December 1

    This module introduces you to ArcGIS™ Spatial Analyst distance and density functions. Distance functions allow you to determine the nearest location of something or the least-cost path to a particular destination. Density functions, on the other hand, allow you to see the highest and the lowest concentrations of features in your data.


Check out these websites:



Handout: Lookup Tools



NOVEMBER 26: Thanksgiving Recess begins at 1 p.m. – no class


DECEMBER 1 (Mon): Lab 13


Lab 13 goals: In this lesson, you will learn the types of statistical methods used in common by the three different statistical functions; Cell Statistics, Neighborhood Statistics and Zonal Satistics. You will learn how to create or analyze new raster datasets using each of these functions. You will also learn how to generalize spatial data and how to clean up NoData speckling in a raster dataset.

MODULE 6 (ArcGIS Spatial Analyst): Cell, Neighborhood, & Zonal Stats
Lesson 1: Working with local, focal, and zonal functions
(Exercise: Use Cell Statistics to detect change)
(Exercise: Use neighborhood function to investigate edge effect)
(Exercise: Find the variety of vegetation types by zone)
(Exercise: Create a generalized land cover raster)


December 3 (IRSS GIS Lab): Guest Lecturer - Jonathan Crabtree


Jon Crabtree, the System Administrator and Network Manager for the Institute of Research and Social Science (aka Odum Institute), will give us a tour of the new GIS Lab in the basement of Manning. Following the tour we will return to class and hear about how the lab is used, who can use it, challenges in setting it up, and types of research being done.


Read before next class:

  • TBD

Guest Slides: TBD



DECEMBER 8 (Rm 214): Final Project Presentations

Be prepared to informally present your final project to the class. You will each have 5 minutes to give a brief overview of the project you chose to do, how you did it, and what you learned. Six presentations will be today, the remaining six will be during our scheduled exam time.



DECEMBER 9-17 EXAM PERIOD

Class Presentations: Exam Period, Dec. 17, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

 

COURSE REQUIREMENTS/ASSIGNMENTS:

Ø       Attend classes and labs regularly

Ø       Participate in class discussions

Ø       Submit all labs, exercises and projects by their due dates; Late assignments will be assessed a 5% reduction in grade per day

Ø       No group work is required in this class but working together is encouraged; you may submit work as a team, but should have each member provide a brief summary of the role they played in completing the consolidated work.

Ø       If there is something you don't understand, ask a question! If you don't want to ask during class, please come see me at some other time.

Ø       Please subscribe to the class list.  The list name is inls110_111.  You can subscribe to the list by sending an email message to listserv@unc.edu.  The message should have no subject line. The only line in the body of the message should be subscribe inls110_111 [YourFirstName] [YourLastName]. You can also subscribe on the web at http://listserv.unc.edu/.  For general information on lists, changing passwords, or if you need an Onyen, go to the Onyen™ Services home page.

 

There will be at least 11 structured labs, several self tests, and one final Project (Lab or Paper) officially assigned during this course. There may be additional quick exercises assigned in class that would be considered and evaluated under class participation.

 


EVALUATION:

Participation   10%

Labs & tests/exercises   70%     

Final Project   20%

 

GRADING:

All assignments will be graded on the following scale:

Ø       95-100%                H

Ø       90 - 94%                P+

Ø       85 - 89%                P

Ø       80 - 84%                P-

Ø       70 - 79%                L

69% and below             F

                       

CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT:

The University Honor Code must be followed:

"The principles of academic honesty, integrity, and responsible citizenship govern the performance of all academic work and student conduct at the University as they have during the long life of this institution. Your acceptance of enrollment in the University presupposes a commitment to the principles embodied in the Code of Student Conduct and a respect for this most significant Carolina tradition. Your reward is in the practice of these principles.

Your participation in this course comes with the expectation that your work will be completed in full observance of the Honor Code. Academic dishonesty in any form is unacceptable, because any breach in academic integrity, however small, strikes destructively at the University's life and work." (from the 8/1/92 letter to the faculty, signed by Paul Hardin, Chancellor, and John Moody, Student Body President.)

 

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

Online Resources: