GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS

The course will provide students with an introduction to the use of spatial information systems for the analysis of environmental data, useful to support the other skills acquired in this Master's degree course.

- to learn methods for the analysis of territorial spatial phenomena
- introducing students to the tools for managing and processing spatial-temporal data
- introducing students to the use of relational databases
- to acquire operational capabilities with GIS tools applied to environmental management

Basic knowledge of computer science

Cartography
Geographic Information
Representing objects
Geometric primitives
The raster model
Geomorphology
Map Algebra
Geoprocessing: basic operators
Geoprocessing: overlay
Spatial analysis: topological relationships and spatial predicates
Introduction to relational databases
The JOIN operation
WebServices: WMS, WFS, WCS

LAB
Using QGIS
Data input and field measures
Representing vector data
Representing raster data
Data import
Thematic maps
Connecting QGIS with a relational database

Teaching materials made available by the instructor through the Moodle web site.

The final exam consists of an interview and a practical test that aims to verify the knowledge of the concepts presented during the course and practical skills related to using GIS software (QGIS) for problem-solving and results presentation. Please look at the course Moodle page for more details about the oral exam.

IMPORTANT: it is mandatory for students who did not attend the course lessons to get in touch with the teacher before the oral exam (possibly before starting the individual study on practical activities)

Regarding grade grading (how grades will be assigned):
A. scores in the 18-20 range will be awarded for:
- basic knowledge of major topics (data models and representations, reference systems, cartography, geoprocessing)
- the ability to use QGIS to solve problems, without limitation of time and access to documentation, involving all the main topics of the course and appropriately discuss their actions and choices (project prepared before the exam, ability to repeat individual steps)

B. scores in the 21-24 range will be awarded for:
- point A requirements
- good level of knowledge of the main topics
- ability to use most of the QGIS features presented during the course and to discuss their purpose and limitations

C. scores in the 25-28 range will be awarded in the presence of:
- point B requirements
- thorough knowledge of the course topics
- ability to perform simple activities during the exam similar to those performed in class by combining multiple QGIS features

D. scores in bands 29-30L will be awarded in the presence of:
- item C requirements
- complete autonomy in acquiring new skills regarding the use of GIS tools
- ability to automate spatial data processing in QGIS and use of features not presented in class
- ability to discuss during the exam the implementation of a complex project proposed by the instructor or to propose workflows for solving non-trivial problems not seen during lectures

The course foresees a series of lectures making use of powerpoint presentations and individual assisted practical activities.
The Moodle platform is used for on-line communication with students.

English

The course material is available in Moodle: http://moodle.unive.it/

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