STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 I.      Write a basic definition of a GIS explaining its key functions and where it might be utilized. (I)

 II.     Explain the type of data structure, reference system, and projection of a given GIS. (II)

 III.    Identify spatial entities within a GIS and determine their characteristics. (II)

 IV.     Create and edit data, both spatial and attribute, within a GIS. (II, III)

 V.      Acquire existing datasets via the internet and convert them into the appropriate format.  (II, III)

 VI.     Perform basic relational database operations, including links, joins, queries, field and record addtions/deletions/calculations, and ordering. (III, IV)

 VII.    Perform basic vector spatial operations such as buffering and overlays. (II, IV)

 VIII.   Determine the locations of all spatial entities having specific characteristics. (II, IV)

 IX.     Determine the spatial relationships existing among spatial data. (II, IV)

 X       Create an accurate, appropriately symbolized and annotated map from spatial data. (V, IV)

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I.      What is a GIS?

         A.      Components of a GIS

         B.      Computer systems and software

 II.     Spatial data and spatial features

         A.      Spatial data as a model of reality

         B.      Thematic characteristics of spatial data

         C.      Sources of spatial data

         D.      Conceptual data models and spatial data

         E.      Data input and editing

 III.    Attribute data management

         A.      Database models

         B.      Database operations

         C.      Data input and editing

 IV.     Data analysis

         A.      Measurements

         B.      Queries

         C.      Buffers

         D.      Overlays

 V.      Basic Cartography

         A.      Reference systems and projections

         B.      Identification, symbology, and annotation

         C.      Scaling and generalization

 VI.     GIS project management:

         A.      Planning

         B.      Implementation

         C.      Conclusion

         D.      Evaluation