Introduction to GIS
This introductory course is aimed at GIS beginners who require instruction in the basic theoretical and practical functionality of GIS.
Themes covered in the course include:
- An introductory overview of GIS in the context of geo-information science; the nature of geographical data
- GIS data models
- GIS processes such as the capture, storage, editing, manipulation and analysis of spatial data
- Map projection and coordinate systems
- Map production: map design and cartographical visualisation with a GIS
- Spatial analysis and modelling
Upon completion, participants will understand the basic principles of spatial data, cartography, map projections, data models, and other entry-level GIS concepts and will have applied these in ArcGIS.
Basic skills needed to do this course?
Participants need to have basic computer skills.
Accreditation
This course is accredited by Stellenbosch University an accredited higher education provider.
Theme |
Learning hours* |
Unit Standard Link |
| Context of GI Science | 40 | View Unit |
| The basic principles of spatial data | 15 | View Unit |
| Map projections | 5 | View Unit |
| Spatial and hybrid queries | 10 | |
| Data capture from secondary data sources | 10 | View Unit |
| GPS | 5 | View Unit |
* The number of learning hours associated with each of these unit standards within this course.
Outcomes
Students who complete the full course will be able to:
- Demonstrate a generic understanding of what GIS is.
- Demonstrate an appreciation of the specialist knowledge needed to build a proper GI system.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how GIS can be used in different industries.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the functionality available from a GIS.
- Demonstrate an understanding of models of the real world.
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of the vector data model.
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of the raster data model.
- Understand the concept of attribute extractions from real world entities.
- Explain components of a reference system.
- Identify an appropriate map projection for a specific task.
- Convert from one projection and or reference system to another.
- Include fundamental elements on a new map.
- Include symbology reference on the map.
- Create and execute a simple vector spatial query under supervision.
- Create and execute a simple raster spatial query under supervision.
Prescribed reading
In preparation for the course, participants can read Chapters 1-9 of Chang (2019). The full reference is:
Chang, K., 2019: Introduction to geographic information systems. 9th ed. McGraw Hill.
A copy of this book can be ordered at an additional cost (please contact the short course manager for availability and costing).
Software requirements
Students need not be on campus during the duration of this course but need access to a computer loaded with ArcGIS Pro software. An ArcGIS Pro temporary licence (valid for two months) can be supplied if necessary. To make sure your system meets the minimum requirements to run ArcGIS Pro click here. To check your computer’s ability to run ArcGIS Pro, click here.
Assessments
Students who register for the full course will write an exam at the end of the 5th week of the course. The test will count towards 50% of the final course mark and will contain questions relating to the lectures, exercises, and the prescribed reading. An assignment will have to be completed within the 3 weeks following the exam. The assignment will be a practical task and will count towards 50% of the final course mark.
Course structure & Cost
Option 1: Accredited option @ R8000
The course duration is a total of 8 weeks. The first 4 weeks students receive access to lectures and practical exercises requiring about 8 to 10 hours of effort per week. At the end of the 5th week students are required to write an examination. This is followed by a final 3 weeks during which students’ complete assignments. Students will be assisted during the course by having access to forums and weekly online q & a sessions.
Option2: Attend-only option @ R6000
Students who are not interested in being assessed may choose to register for the first 4 weeks only (i.e. only get access to the lectures and exercises and not write the exam or complete any assignments). Students choosing this option will receive a certificate of attendance.
Students need not be on campus during the duration of this course but need access to a computer loaded with ArcGIS Pro software. An ArcGIS Pro temporary licence (valid for two months) can be supplied if necessary.
Standard course fees are reduced by 20% for Stellenbosch University students and staff members if paid via an internal university cost point.
Dates
Check our calendar for dates on when the short course is presented.