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Stéphane Joost,
Fernand Koffi Kouamé,
Amadou Sall,
and
Marc Soutter
This course is the second part of a course dedicated to the theoretical and practical bases of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
It offers an introduction to GIS that does not require prior computer skills. It gives the opportunity to quickly acquire the basics that allow you to create spatial databases and produce geographic maps.
This is a practical course that relies on the use of free Open Source software (QGIS, Geoda).
Read more
This course is the second part of a course dedicated to the theoretical and practical bases of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
It offers an introduction to GIS that does not require prior computer skills. It gives the opportunity to quickly acquire the basics that allow you to create spatial databases and produce geographic maps.
This is a practical course that relies on the use of free Open Source software (QGIS, Geoda).
Read more
This course is the second part of a course dedicated to the theoretical and practical bases of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
It offers an introduction to GIS that does not require prior computer skills. It gives the opportunity to quickly acquire the basics that allow you to create spatial databases and produce geographic maps.
This is a practical course that relies on the use of free Open Source software (QGIS, Geoda).
In the first part of the course (Geographical Information Systems - Part 1), you explored the basics of land digitization and geodata storage. In particular, you learned how to:
- Characterize spatial objects and phenomena (spatial modeling) from the point of view of their positioning in space (coordinate systems and projections, spatial relationships) and according to their intrinsic nature (object or vector mode vs. image or raster mode);
- Use various data acquisition methods (direct measurement, georeferencing of images, digitization, existing data source, etc.);
- Use various geodata storage methods (simple files and relational databases);
- Use data modeling tools to describe and implement a database;
- Create queries in a query language and data manipulation.
The second part of the course deals with spatial analysis methods and georeferenced information representation techniques. In particular, you will learn how to:
- Analyze the spatial properties of discrete variables, for example by quantifying spatial autocorrelation;
- Work with continuous variables (sampling, interpolation and construction of isolines)
- Use digital elevation models (DEMs) and their derivatives (slope, orientation, etc.);
- Use geodata superposition techniques;
- Produce cartographic documents according to the rules of the semiology of graphics;
- Explore other forms of spatial representation (interactive cartography on the internet, 3D representations, and augmented reality).
The page https://www.facebook.com/moocsig provides an interactive forum for participants in this course.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/mmh00p/geographical
What's inside
Syllabus
Discrete Spatial Phenomena (Module 3)
Objects in geographic space are modeled as discontinuous spatial phenomena whose properties are defined according to the geometric, thematic and spatial dimensions: geometric. The properties of these spatial objects can be described by different indices that characterize an object’s shape, size, spatial distribution or even its spatial dependence. When considered simultaneously, in conjunction with the study context, these indices describe the landscape under investigation.
Read more
Syllabus
Discrete Spatial Phenomena (Module 3)
Objects in geographic space are modeled as discontinuous spatial phenomena whose properties are defined according to the geometric, thematic and spatial dimensions: geometric. The properties of these spatial objects can be described by different indices that characterize an object’s shape, size, spatial distribution or even its spatial dependence. When considered simultaneously, in conjunction with the study context, these indices describe the landscape under investigation.
Read more
Continuous Spatial Phenomena (Module 3)
A phenomenon is considered spatially continuous if it is defined at all points in geographic space, and if its properties vary locally in a gradual and structured manner. Elevation, soil humidity, heavy metal concentration and other soil contaminants are common examples of continuous spatial phenomena. This module will begin by touching on different sampling methods, then deterministic interpolation methods that do not require any a priori study of the phenomenon. Working to the heart of the lesson, we will then introduce geostatistics, which are based on the notion of random functions, and we will finish by discussing the concepts and application of regionalized variables, variogram analysis and kriging.
Digital Elevation Models (Module 3)
Topographical relief plays both a revealing and explanatory role in determining the way phenomena unfold on the Earth’s surface. It constitutes an important element in the determination of human settlement patterns and also controls environmental conditions that favor, or hamper, the establishment and development of different plant and animal colonies. Correspondingly, relief occupies a central position in spatial analysis and is important for any discipline that is interested in human activity or natural phenomena. This chapter will present a brief overview of the different methods used to acquire elevation data and will also cover the algorithms, and their properties, that are used to derive important descriptive indicators of relief.
Integrating Data Layers (Module 3)
Through spatial overlay, GIS can be used to combine data from different sources or in different formats (raster or vector) by transferring information between layers according to their spatial relationships. Often the analysis of geographically distributed phenomena requires that data from different sources can be considered simultaneously. This is made possible through spatial overlay - the defining functionality and primary advantage of geographic information systems.
Thematic Mapping and the Semiology of Graphics (Module 4)
This week, you will learn how apply established rules from thematic mapping in order to effectively present geographic information. You will learn how to treat quantitative or qualitative information, and we will show you how to use the QGIS Print Composer so that you can create your own thematic maps. Thematic maps should be created with a certain number of constraints in mind. These rules - for example, to choose color palettes that respect the semiology of graphics, to ensure that your map includes a number of essential components such as a legend, scale, data sources and description – ensure efficient information transfer and effective interpretation.
Other Forms of Representation (Module 4)
In this final week of our course, we will focus on alternative methods of representing geographic information, particularly through dynamic web-based mapping, three dimensional representations and, finally, we will see how augmented reality can be incorporated into geographic information systems.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Builds a foundation for individuals starting out in GIS
Utilizes open source software
Taught by instructors from IHE DeLft with expertise in GIS research and implementation
Covers both theoretical and practical aspects of GIS
Covers advanced topics not commonly covered in introductory GIS courses
Provides a forum for students to interact
Save this course
Save Geographical Information Systems - Part 2 to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Geographical Information Systems - Part 2 with these
activities:
Review your notes from previous courses on GIS or spatial analysis
Show steps
Reviewing your notes from previous courses on GIS or spatial analysis will help you to refresh your knowledge and to prepare for this course.
Browse courses on
GIS
Show steps
-
Gather your notes from previous courses on GIS or spatial analysis.
-
Review your notes.
Read the book 'GIS for Environmental Modeling' by Michael Goodchild
Show steps
Reading this book will give you a deeper understanding of the principles and applications of GIS for environmental modeling.
View
Geographic Information Systems and Science
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase the book.
-
Read the book.
Form a study group with other students in the class
Show steps
Forming a study group with other students in the class will give you the opportunity to discuss the course material, work on projects together, and learn from each other.
Show steps
-
Find other students in the class who are interested in forming a study group.
-
Decide on a meeting time and location.
-
Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Review linear algebra
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with matrices and vector spaces, which are foundational concepts for many of the spatial modeling techniques covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Linear Algebra
Show steps
-
Review matrix operations and properties.
-
Practice solving systems of linear equations using Gaussian elimination.
-
Explore concepts of vector spaces, including vector addition and linear independence.
Complete the exercises in the QGIS tutorial on spatial analysis
Show steps
Completing the exercises in the QGIS tutorial on spatial analysis will give you hands-on experience with the different tools and techniques used for spatial analysis.
Browse courses on
Spatial Analysis
Show steps
-
Open the QGIS tutorial on spatial analysis.
-
Follow the instructions in the tutorial to complete the exercises.
Create a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) from scratch using QGIS
Show steps
Creating a DEM from scratch will give you a deeper understanding of the process and the different steps involved in creating a DEM, and will also allow you to apply your knowledge of QGIS and GIS.
Show steps
-
Gather the necessary data, such as elevation data and a base map.
-
Import the data into QGIS.
-
Create a DEM using the GDAL tools.
-
Visualize the DEM and explore its properties.
Write a blog post explaining the concept of spatial autocorrelation and how to measure it
Show steps
Writing a blog post will help you to solidify your understanding of spatial autocorrelation and how to measure it, and will also allow you to share your knowledge with others.
Show steps
-
Research the topic of spatial autocorrelation.
-
Choose a method for measuring spatial autocorrelation.
-
Apply the method to a real-world dataset.
-
Write a blog post explaining your findings.
Create a presentation on a GIS application in your field of interest
Show steps
Creating a presentation on a GIS application in your field of interest will give you the opportunity to apply your knowledge of GIS to a real-world problem.
Browse courses on
GIS
Show steps
-
Choose a GIS application in your field of interest.
-
Research the application.
-
Create a presentation.
Review your notes from previous courses on GIS or spatial analysis
Show steps
Reviewing your notes from previous courses on GIS or spatial analysis will help you to refresh your knowledge and to prepare for this course.
Browse courses on
GIS
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your notes from previous courses on GIS or spatial analysis.
- Review your notes.
Read the book 'GIS for Environmental Modeling' by Michael Goodchild
Show steps
Reading this book will give you a deeper understanding of the principles and applications of GIS for environmental modeling.
View
Geographic Information Systems and Science
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase the book.
- Read the book.
Form a study group with other students in the class
Show steps
Forming a study group with other students in the class will give you the opportunity to discuss the course material, work on projects together, and learn from each other.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find other students in the class who are interested in forming a study group.
- Decide on a meeting time and location.
- Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Review linear algebra
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with matrices and vector spaces, which are foundational concepts for many of the spatial modeling techniques covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Linear Algebra
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review matrix operations and properties.
- Practice solving systems of linear equations using Gaussian elimination.
- Explore concepts of vector spaces, including vector addition and linear independence.
Complete the exercises in the QGIS tutorial on spatial analysis
Show steps
Completing the exercises in the QGIS tutorial on spatial analysis will give you hands-on experience with the different tools and techniques used for spatial analysis.
Browse courses on
Spatial Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Open the QGIS tutorial on spatial analysis.
- Follow the instructions in the tutorial to complete the exercises.
Create a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) from scratch using QGIS
Show steps
Creating a DEM from scratch will give you a deeper understanding of the process and the different steps involved in creating a DEM, and will also allow you to apply your knowledge of QGIS and GIS.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather the necessary data, such as elevation data and a base map.
- Import the data into QGIS.
- Create a DEM using the GDAL tools.
- Visualize the DEM and explore its properties.
Write a blog post explaining the concept of spatial autocorrelation and how to measure it
Show steps
Writing a blog post will help you to solidify your understanding of spatial autocorrelation and how to measure it, and will also allow you to share your knowledge with others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the topic of spatial autocorrelation.
- Choose a method for measuring spatial autocorrelation.
- Apply the method to a real-world dataset.
- Write a blog post explaining your findings.
Create a presentation on a GIS application in your field of interest
Show steps
Creating a presentation on a GIS application in your field of interest will give you the opportunity to apply your knowledge of GIS to a real-world problem.
Browse courses on
GIS
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a GIS application in your field of interest.
- Research the application.
- Create a presentation.
Career center
Learners who complete Geographical Information Systems - Part 2 will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
GIS Analyst
GIS Analyst
GIS Analysts use GIS software to analyze and interpret spatial data to solve real-world problems. This course provides the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful GIS Analyst. You will learn how to perform spatial analysis techniques, such as quantifying spatial autocorrelation and working with continuous and discrete spatial phenomena. The course also covers advanced topics such as geostatistics and digital elevation models, which are essential for GIS Analysts working in fields such as environmental modeling, land use planning, and transportation planning.
Geospatial Data Analyst
Geospatial Data Analyst
Geospatial Data Analysts collect, manage, and analyze geospatial data to support decision-making. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of geospatial data analysis. You will learn how to acquire and process geospatial data, as well as how to perform spatial analysis techniques. The course also covers advanced topics such as data integration, spatial modeling, and geostatistics, which are essential for Geospatial Data Analysts working in fields such as environmental management, public health, and urban planning.
Geographic Information Systems Technician
Geographic Information Systems Technician
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technicians are spatial data specialists responsible for collecting, managing, analyzing, and displaying geographic information. This course provides a solid foundation for a career as a GIS Technician by introducing the theoretical and practical bases of GIS. Through hands-on exercises using free Open Source software, you will gain proficiency in creating and managing spatial databases, as well as producing professional-quality maps. The course also covers advanced topics such as spatial analysis, geostatistics, and digital elevation models, which are essential skills for GIS Technicians.
Cartographer
Cartographer
Cartographers create and design maps that communicate spatial information. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Cartographer by introducing the principles of thematic mapping and the semiology of graphics. You will learn how to effectively present geographic information using established rules for color palettes, scale, and other design elements. The course also covers advanced topics such as dynamic web-based mapping and three-dimensional representations, which are essential for Cartographers working in fields such as web mapping and data visualization.
Geographic Information Systems Manager
Geographic Information Systems Manager
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Managers oversee the implementation and use of GIS technology within an organization. This course provides the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful GIS Manager. You will learn how to plan and implement GIS projects, as well as how to manage GIS data and personnel. The course also covers advanced topics such as enterprise GIS and web GIS, which are essential for GIS Managers working in large organizations.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners use GIS and other tools to plan and design cities and towns. This course provides a foundation for a career as an Urban Planner by introducing the principles of urban planning and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze urban data and to develop plans for sustainable urban development. The course also covers advanced topics such as transportation planning and land use planning, which are essential for Urban Planners working in fields such as urban design, urban renewal, and sustainable development.
Remote Sensing Specialist
Remote Sensing Specialist
Remote Sensing Specialists use satellite imagery and other remotely sensed data to collect information about the Earth's surface. This course provides a foundation for a career as a Remote Sensing Specialist by introducing the principles of remote sensing and image interpretation. You will learn how to acquire and process remotely sensed data, as well as how to extract meaningful information from it. The course also covers advanced topics such as hyperspectral imaging and radar remote sensing, which are essential for Remote Sensing Specialists working in fields such as environmental monitoring, land use planning, and natural resource management.
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planners use GIS and other tools to plan and design transportation systems. This course provides a foundation for a career as a Transportation Planner by introducing the principles of transportation planning and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze transportation data and to develop plans for sustainable transportation systems. The course also covers advanced topics such as traffic modeling and public transportation planning, which are essential for Transportation Planners working in fields such as transportation engineering, public transportation planning, and land use planning.
Hydrologist
Hydrologist
Hydrologists use GIS and other tools to study water resources. This course provides a foundation for a career as a Hydrologist by introducing the principles of hydrology and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze hydrological data and to develop models of water resources. The course also covers advanced topics such as water quality modeling and flood risk assessment, which are essential for Hydrologists working in fields such as water resource management, environmental engineering, and climate change adaptation.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists use GIS and other tools to study and solve environmental problems. This course provides a foundation for a career as an Environmental Scientist by introducing the principles of environmental science and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze environmental data and to develop solutions to environmental problems. The course also covers advanced topics such as environmental modeling and climate change, which are essential for Environmental Scientists working in fields such as environmental impact assessment, natural resource management, and climate change mitigation.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers use GIS and other tools to design and build infrastructure. This course provides a foundation for a career as a Civil Engineer by introducing the principles of civil engineering and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze civil engineering data and to design and build infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings. The course also covers advanced topics such as structural engineering and transportation engineering, which are essential for Civil Engineers working in fields such as civil engineering, structural engineering, and transportation engineering.
Geologist
Geologist
Geologists use GIS and other tools to study the Earth's surface and subsurface. This course provides a foundation for a career as a Geologist by introducing the principles of geology and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze geological data and to develop models of the Earth's surface and subsurface. The course also covers advanced topics such as geophysics and hydrogeology, which are essential for Geologists working in fields such as mineral exploration, environmental geology, and engineering geology.
Geotechnical Engineer
Geotechnical Engineer
Geotechnical Engineers use GIS and other tools to study the engineering properties of soil and rock. This course provides a foundation for a career as a Geotechnical Engineer by introducing the principles of geotechnical engineering and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze geotechnical data and to develop models of soil and rock properties. The course also covers advanced topics such as soil mechanics and foundation engineering, which are essential for Geotechnical Engineers working in fields such as civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, and environmental engineering.
Oceanographer
Oceanographer
Oceanographers use GIS and other tools to study the oceans. This course provides a foundation for a career as an Oceanographer by introducing the principles of oceanography and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze oceanographic data and to develop models of the oceans. The course also covers advanced topics such as ocean circulation modeling and marine resource management, which are essential for Oceanographers working in fields such as marine biology, oceanography, and climate change research.
Atmospheric Scientist
Atmospheric Scientist
Atmospheric Scientists use GIS and other tools to study the atmosphere. This course provides a foundation for a career as an Atmospheric Scientist by introducing the principles of atmospheric science and GIS. You will learn how to use GIS to analyze atmospheric data and to develop models of the atmosphere. The course also covers advanced topics such as climate modeling and air pollution modeling, which are essential for Atmospheric Scientists working in fields such as weather forecasting, climate change research, and air quality management.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/mmh00p/geographical
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Geographical Information Systems - Part 2.
Provides a comprehensive overview of spatial data analysis techniques. It covers a wide range of topics, from exploratory data analysis to spatial regression, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
This classic GIS textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field, covering all the major concepts and techniques. It valuable resource for both students and professionals.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Python programming language for data analysis. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic Python concepts to advanced Python techniques, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
Save
Provides a clear and concise introduction to the fundamental concepts and techniques of GIS. It is written in a non-technical style and is suitable for students and professionals with little or no prior experience with GIS.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the R programming language. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic R concepts to advanced R techniques, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of remote sensing and image interpretation. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic remote sensing concepts to advanced image processing techniques, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of thematic map design. It covers a wide range of topics, from color theory to data visualization, making it a valuable resource for students and professionals in the field.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of map use. It covers a wide range of topics, from map design and production to map interpretation and analysis.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/mmh00p/geographical
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Effort
6 weeks with 2-3 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne2
Instructors
Stéphane Joost
Fernand Koffi Kouamé
Amadou Sall
Marc Soutter
Language
English
Transcript
Français
Good to know
Builds a foundation for individuals starting out in GIS
Utilizes open source software
Taught by instructors from IHE DeLft with expertise in GIS research and implementation
Covers both theoretical and practical aspects of GIS
Covers advanced topics not commonly covered in introductory GIS courses
Provides a forum for students to interact
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