This course is designed to introduce graduate students to concepts in geographic information systems (GIS). The purpose of the course is threefold, to:

1. Examine the broad research context in which GIS is adopted and used through an examination of the literature
2. Gain hands-on experience using GIS software and methods in an integrative fashion with other technologies (e.g., remote sensing, Internet) and methodologies (e.g., cartography, spatial analysis, field methods)
3. Understand concepts through application by designing a GIS project.

The objective of this course is to allow students a venue in which to apply newly acquired skills in geospatial information technologies. Laboratories will provide students with basic skills and information on GIS software, Internet data sources, and examples of research activities. Lectures are interactive and student-driven. Students will collect relevant articles for discussion and presentation in class in addition to materials provided by the instructor. These interactive seminar-style lecture meetings will focus on the question: what are the current areas for research in GIS? Most importantly, students are expected to apply their understanding of GIS concepts by preparing a GIS project.

Note: Much of the material provided on this web site is drawn, with permission, from course materials prepared by Dr. Melinda Laituri, on sabbatical during fall 2010 and on a fellowship in fall 2014. She is the primary architect for this course, and is not continually cited for expediency only. Dr. Greg Newman provided material and permission for its use as well. Their input is appreciated.