Deepening in Geographic Information Systems

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The aim of the course is to present the necessary methodologies of geospatial analysis and its applications in continuous and discontinuous spatial data models, using modern tools, methods, and techniques in an ever-changing competitive environment. The aim of the course is to understand the theoretical framework of the methodologies of geospatial analysis and their application under the environment of Geographic Information Systems so that students are able to properly manage and structure geospatial data and to explore and interpret the results of their analyzes. Because by its nature the science of Geographical Information is an interdisciplinary subject, which in addition to the high standards of its theoretical existence has a large section for the application of its methods, the course material is structured in two distinct but interconnected sections (theoretical and applied). It aims to deepen the specialized knowledge concerning methodological and operational issues of analysis of geospatial information in the appropriate way, which leads to its emergence, as the main factor that influences decision-making with parameters that depend on natural and man-made. The specialized knowledge and skills acquired by the students attending the course do not lead to a sterile and strictly theoretical training, but through a known and passable for the average of the students in the 7th level of complexity of the subjects that are addressed, they are faced with issues that will be called upon to face in the labor market. In addition, they receive all those cognitive supplies and skills, which in combination with the more specific cognitive subjects of Geographical Information Science contained in their curriculum, acquire the opportunity to claim their place at the next level of their studies. According to the design of the content of the specific subject, students cognitively approach the following:

1. Spatial relationships between continuous and discontinuous spatial entities, Spatial distribution models and the identification of spatial patterns with specific characteristics and properties
2. The results of the application of surface analysis methods
3. The methods and results of the applications of the interpolations
4. Location and network models
5. The processes of designing spatial planning and planning solutions from the perspective of decision support systems using GIS.
6. The critical evaluation of spatial analysis methods.

 

Therefore, the objectives of this subject matter extend to a description of those who have successfully attended this subject, which has the following characteristics:

1. The assimilation of theoretical and objective knowledge regarding the analytical and synthetic treatment of geospatial information that leads to representative and specialized geographical issues, through the knowledge of methodologies and models of spatial analysis, spatial statistics,geostatistics, models location and network theory, using modern commercial and free/open- source software and its diffusion on the internet.
2. The development of mental and practical skills in solving problems of analysis and transformation of geographical space.
3. The development of skills through the synthetic creation and support of arguments during the spatial transformation, reinforcing in terms of responsibility and autonomy for the acquisition of sufficient capacity for further professional and personal development.
4. The development of possibilities of a professional approach to the object through the use of the knowledge and understanding acquired during the design and implementation of applications that complete a spatial decision-making system.

 

General Competences

• Search, analysis, and synthesis of data and information, using the necessary technologies
• Adaptation to new situations
• Decision making
• Autonomous work
• Teamwork
• Exercise criticism and self-criticism
• Promoting free, creative, and inductive thinking

 

SYLLABUS

Theoretical Part of the Course

1. The conceptual framework of spatial analysis using GIS
   • Terminology
   • Basic principles and methods
   • The concept of entity in spatial analysis, characteristics and properties
2. Spatial Analysis Methodology in Discontinuous and Continuous Spatial Data Models
   • Geospatial data structure
   • Spatial Relations
   • Geographic Data Interactions
   • Computational methods and models in geospatial analysis
   • Spatial Statistics (distance, density, regression and autocorrelation)
3. Creation of statistical surfaces through spatial interpolation
   • Statistical surfaces and surface models
   • Causal methods of interpolation
   • Geostatistical interpolation methods
   • Examples of understanding
4. Analysis of statistical surfaces
   • Detailed procedures on surfaces (slopes, orientation, shading maps, isosceles curves, sections and cross sections)
   • Visibility analysis
   • View shed Analysis
   • Volumetric calculations
5. Basic principles of location – allocation models
   • Introduction to network and location analysis
   • Basic problems in network analysis
   • Network Construction, Optimal Routes and Optimal Tours
   • Identification of accessibility problems
   • The location – allocation model
6. Support for spatial decisions in GIS:
   • Elements of multi-criteria analysis
   • Problems in multicriteria analysis
   • Distinguish between multiple goals – multiple properties
   • Decision making procedure and rules
   • Evaluation criterias
   • Sensitivity analysis
   • Multicriteria analysis functions in GIS environment

 

Applied Part of the Course

1. Applications of Spatial Analysis functions using modern commercial and free / open source GSP software.
2. Creating models in a GSP environment with specialized applications in interdisciplinary spatial problems
3. Interoperability

 

STUDENT PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

Language of Evaluation: Greek
Evaluation Methods:
• Written exam at the end of the semester (Multiple choice, short development and problem-solving exercises)
• Homework evaluation (development of theoretical topic and commentary of scientific articles
• Evaluation of laboratory work (gradual development of project for management and analysis in a GIS environment)
• Oral presentation of work (Ms Office presentation of the theoretical topic)

 

ATTACHED BIBLIOGRAPHY

 

Books

1. Halkias Ch., 2015. Geographical Analysis Using Geoinformatics. (Greek language) https://repository.kallipos.gr/handle/11419/4546
2. Kavouras, M. et al, 2016. Geographic Information Science – Integrated Approach and Special Topics (Greek language). https://repository.kallipos.gr/handle/11419/6381
3. Pappas, V, 2011. GIS in Spatial Planning: Scientific Edition of the University of Patra (Greek language)
4. Koutsopoulos Κ., 2002. GIS and Spatial Analysis, Publication in Greek language, by Papasotiriou Editions.
5. Alibrandi, M, Fitzpatrick, 2003, GIS in the classroom: Using Geographic Information Systems in social studies and environmental science, Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann
6. DeMers, M, 2002, GIS modeling in raster, New York: Wiley.
7. Hunsaker, C, 2001, Spatial uncertainty in ecology: implications for remote sensing and GIS applications, New York: Springer.
8. Lawson, A, Denison, D, 2002, Spatial cluster modeling, Boca Raton, FL : Chapman & Hall/CRC
9. Malczewski, J, 1999, GIS and multicriteria decision analysis New York: Wiley.
10. Stillwell, J, Clarke, G, 2004, Applied GIS and spatial analysis, Wiley

 

Web pages

1. Center for Spatially Integrated Social Science
2. Resources for Spatial Teaching & Learning
3. Advanced Spatial Analysis program
4. Geospatial Analysis – A comprehensive guide
5. Geographic Information Technology Training Alliance

 

Scientific Journals

1. International Journal of Geographical Information Science, Taylor & Francis
2. Journal of Spatial Science, Taylor & Francis
3. Geoinformatica, Springer
4. Journal of Geographical Systems, Springer
5. GISciences & Remote Sensing, Bellwether Publishing, Ltd.
6. Journal of Geographic Information System, Scientific Research
7. ISPRS-International Journal of Geo-Information (IJGI is an open access journal of MDPI)