Digital Earth: Introduction to GIS

• Understand and apply basic geographic principles such as locations, projections, attributes, and spatial relationships. • Identify basic types of maps and related spatial data. • Demonstrate proficiency in map reading, interpretation, and design. • Explain and demonstrate the general applications of GIS in society. • Compare and contrast methods of data input including uploading software with numerical and attribute data, scanning maps and images, and digitizing from existing maps. • Input, organize, and manipulate raster and vector datasets and be able to deduce the most appropriate uses of each. • Compare and contrast various types of data including geospatial and attribute data. • Construct simple attribute tables and relational databases. • Identify, access, and obtain sources of spatial data for Geographic Information Systems. • Apply editing functions to existing GIS data. • Effectively convert data from one data model to another. • Comprehend and apply basic GIS analytical functions. • Define key concepts and terminologies related to the function of Geographic Information Systems. • Identify basic components required for GIS use in the workplace. • Identify and analyze GIS data, support, and career resources. • Use GPS units to collect field data, and import such data into GIS for further analyses. • Document and organize spatial data in a professional manner.