A shared resource course in Geographic Information Systems (vector GIS) for
Undergrads(FOR357) and Grads(FOR557)

Course Info

Texts: Required

  • ESRI on-line course "Learning ArcGIS 9" (DO NOT BUY; it is free and we will provide password!)
  • A recommended text is David M. Theobald, 2005, GIS Concepts and ArcGIS Methods. Conservation Planning Technologies, Fort Collins. 444 pgs Available at Folletts Orange Bookstore in Marshall Square Mall, 720 University Av. Not really a textbook in the traditional sense but an excellent reference containing many useful methods for doing things. There are reading assignments in this book and that is why it is required!

Learn how to use ESRI's vector GIS software ArcGIS V9.1 to solve problems common to Natural Resources Management, environmental management, planning, engineering, biology, and ecology . This softwares and its extensiions are what you will encounter most often in NY, the USA and the world. The course covers the following basic topics:

    • Introduction to GIS concepts -- the map in the computer and on paper (the course is NOT an introduction to GIS but I assume you know nothing about GIS)
    • Data Conversion -- Downloading data from the web and "heads up" digitizing
    • Projections and datums -- understanding how the spatial coordinates of data differ for different map projections, coordinate systems, and datums is vital for todays GIS user and these topics are a continuing thread throughout the course
    • Data management - including an introduction to GeoDatabases
    • Map composition and symbolization or " how to communicate with map"
    • Analysis - Covers attribute query, spatial query, and overlay processes - the key to solving problems

    See the syllabus for more detailed information

    Updated August 1, 2007