The course begins where the terrain analysis course ends, and provides a foundation for evaluating a large number of environmental factors, using both manual and computer assisted techniques. As such, it is related to the computer course as it discusses the rationale, need and usefulness of establishing and utilizing various data bases and geographic information systems. Economic and municipal aspects are also included. The course examines the acquisition, manipulation, analysis and presentation of survey data, computer assisted analysis, and computer assisted presentation. Introduction to Geographic Information Systems Computer assisted mapping involves the application of GIS in the production of thematic maps.
Emphasis is placed on data capture, management, analysis and output.
As the course progresses, more relationships of spatial and attribute data are explored together with macro level programming in the PC environment. The course introduces means of examining information systems, and applies them to a number of databases. The Internet is begun to be used for research and distribution of spatial and attribute data. Projects involve linkages of various environmental and statistical databases with spatial data for land management applications. A focus is placed on environmental modelling and suitability analysis using both environmental and land information systems.