Introduction to GIS
Overall Course Objectives
To achieve a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts, techniques and tools within Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and to apply these effectively to analyze spatial data and to create visually informative maps.
See course description in Danish
Learning Objectives
- Describe fundamental concepts and principles of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of coordinate systems and projections, and apply this knowledge to ensure accurate spatial analysis and mapping
- Interpret and analyze a map with its various map elements
- Explain the different types of spatial data structures (vector, raster) and their characteristics
- Describe different techniques for the acquisition of geodata with respect to their fundamental principles, their field of application, the required effort and their limitations
- Select and apply appropriate spatial analysis techniques to solve real-world problems using GIS software
- Utilize GIS software tools to analyze spatial patterns and relationships within datasets
- Apply programming languages, such as Python, for automation and customization of GIS workflows.
- Develop a simple database for the investigation of a given spatial problem in alignment with a suitable spatial data model and formulate simple queries on it
- Design and create visually appealing and informative maps using GIS software
- Generate meaningful insights based on GIS analysis and interpretation
- Assess the accuracy and reliability of GIS analysis results
Course Content
– Introduction to GIS and spatial analysis.
– Coordinate systems, map projections, and datums.
– Cartography and geovisualization.
– GIS data structures and models.
– Spatial analysis in vector and raster models.
– Digital elevation models and terrain analysis.
– Python programming within GIS.
– Data input in GIS and sources of spatial data.
– Relational and spatial databases, database design and queries with SQL.
– Applications of GIS.
Recommended prerequisites
01005/01006/01015
Teaching Method
Lectures and exercises.
Faculty
Remarks
This course offers students the opportunity to develop competencies aligned with various UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The specific UN goal(s) addressed depend on the student-selected GIS project undertaken as part of the course.