Geography 38/42:286GIS I: PSDCD

Topic 1:Introduction to GIS and Cartography

Chapter 1: ChangDent et al. Chapter 1 1

What is a GIS?

• Would you know it if you were standing in, on, or next to one?

• Numerous definitions

• Let’s create our own definition based on form and function:– _______________________________– ____________________________

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Components of a GIS

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1.

Components of a GIS

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2.

Components of a GIS

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3.

Components of a GIS

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4.

Components of a GIS

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5.

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What is a GIS Used For?• What is a GIS used for?

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

C

S

V

AM

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Def’n: GIS is . . .

• an information system consisting of hardware, software, spatial data, people, and methods

• used for the management, storage, creation, analysis, and visualization

• of geospatial data

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Def’n based on this

A method of combining map information and data about map features in a computer for managing and analyzing geographic data.

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What is a Map?

Map is a (graphic) model

Depicts two basic pieces of info13

What are maps used for?

MAPPING

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What is Cartography?

• The art, science, and technology of creating maps

• Includes:••••

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A Cartographic REVOLUTION?

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How do maps stack up?

What can we do with maps?

Limitations?

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GIS vs. Maps• So . . . what are the advantages of

GIS over maps?

1.

2.

3.

• So what? 18

Where do maps fit in?

COMMUNICATING & INTERACTING19

Information Systems

How is a GIS different?

1.

2.

3.

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GISystems vs. GIScience

D AIL SM

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What is Geomatics?• Science and technology of gathering,

analyzing, interpreting, distributing and using geographic information

Includes:1.2.3.4.5.

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Class Assignment

• Search the Internet for three jobs in your selected field of study that require some experience with GIS and/or geomatics

• On one page describe each job, including a brief description and qualifications

• Due before midterm, 3 bonus marks

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