GIS (Geographic Information Science or Geographic Information Systems) refers to a set of theories, methodologies, and computer-based technologies dealing with geographic information. GIS have been widely used in many domains including geography, geology, ecology, sociology, urban planning, agriculture, engineering, business, health studies, public administration, and others. Geography 58 is an ice-breaking course into the basic theories and technologies of GIS. Emphasis will be placed on the nature of geographic information, spatial data models and structures, data input and editing, spatial query and analysis, computerized cartographic output and presentation, and error analysis.

The course consists of three components: lectures, labs, and term project.  In the lectures, the conceptual elements of the above topics are explained.  In the labs, the students will gain hands-on experience in data input, data management, data analyses, and result presentation in a geographical information system.  The students will use the knowledge and skills they learn to complete small projects of which the topics are chosen by themselves.

After taking this class, the students should have acquired solid comprehension of basic structures, concepts, and theories of GIS; should be capable of designing and performing basic GIS operations for their own studies or work; and should feel prepared when they take more advanced GIS application and technical classes.