Hobart, Online
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Introduction
As more businesses and scientists adopt geographical information systems (GIS), there is increasing demand for graduates with strong skills in collecting, managing, analysing, and visualising spatial datasets. GIS and spatial analysis skills will be indispensable for almost all careers in geography and geosciences, and students who have advanced skills in this field will be best prepared to enter the job market. This unit will teach you advanced skills in the analysis and presentation of spatial data using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and builds on KGG539 Environmental Geographic Information Science, extending your skills in the analysis and presentation of spatial data. The unit covers interpolation, terrain modelling, multi-criteria decision analysis, geodatabases, spatial data quality, and internet mapping. These topics are explored in lectures and weekly practical sessions. Towards the end of the unit, you will work on a GIS project and apply your new spatial analysis skills to tackle real-world spatial problems. Additionally, throughout the unit you will explore GIS research topics in the scientific literature that will prepare you for a research thesis or major project.
Summary
| Unit name | Environmental Geographic Information Science B |
| Unit code | KGG540 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering School of Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences |
| Discipline | Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences |
| Coordinator | Doctor Mark Williams |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | 4/7/2027 | 26/7/2027 | 29/8/2027 | 23/10/2027 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate spatial analysis techniques to inform the interpretation and enhancement of spatial datasets.
- Develop spatial analysis workflows that solve environmental and social problems.
- Operate geographic information system (GIS) software to generate enhanced spatial information from vector, raster, and non-spatial datasets and produce cartographic and interactive maps.
- Reflect on the effectiveness of available techniques including scholarly review and critique, collaboration, data analysis and synthesis of results.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Requisites
Prerequisites
KGG102 OR KGG539 OR Admission to P7QTeaching
| Teaching Pattern | 13 x 1-hr seminars, 13 x 1hr pre-recorded videos, and 13 x 3-hr practicals. Seminars and practical introductions will be recorded and made available on MyLO. 1-day field excursion in second week. |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Elevation models and derived drainage networks (30%)|Site Suitability and MCDA (30%)|Network Analysis (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | Smith, M. J., Paron, P., & Griffiths, J. S. (2011). Geomorphological mapping: Methods and applications. Elsevier. |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.