Geographic Analysis and Visualization

COURSE OBJECTIVE
Learning goals:
- Students should be able to select and use relevant GIS analytical methods and visualisation techniques, depending on the problem at hand;
- Students should be able to decide on the type of analytical tool, based on type of spatial entity, scale and type of data, and to embed it
into a processing script;
- Students should be able to understand the consequences of their choices for data, type of analysis and used visualisation technique.

COURSE CONTENT
The module Geographic Analysis and Visualisation (GeoAnVis) provides next to the module "Geo Data" the basic knowledge for the GI Minor. In GeoAnVis you will gain insight in both the concepts and the practical skills related to spatial analysis and visualisation, by means of lectures, lab exercises (assignments) and the case study. The case study is a joint assignment with Geo Data.

Discussed issues:
- (Spatial) modelling;
- Classification of analytical tools;
- Relation of analytical tool and type of (spatial) entity;
- Relation analytical tool and type of (spatial) entity;
- The importance of scale, scale related problems (MAUP);
- Raster versus vector analysis;
- Scenario studies (MCA);
- Basics of map algebra;
- Model building and automatization;
- Scripting for analysis and geoprocessing;
- Python scripting for analysis and geoprocessing;
- Geovisualisation.

TEACHING METHODS
In the the first 4 weeks, lectures will introduce the main concepts related to GI analysis and visualisation. Linked to these lectures are a
number of dedicated exercises and assignments (in the afternoons). These assignments should help students understand and apply
the concepts. The assignments are designed specifically to help students use the tools for their case study (last 3 weeks).

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Main examination takes place by way of an exam with open questions. Use of books, dictionaries, etc. is not allowed. The weighting is 60% of the total GeoAnVis module mark. The case study report (analysis part) counts for 30% and the Poster for 10%. The exam is individual; case study report and atlas are group work. Basis of the exam will be the mentioned chapters of the book “Geographic Information Science and Systems”, as well as the lectures and the content of the lab work.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
None