Response to question 7: How course meets CS criteria
GPH 370 is a survey class that serves as a gateway for several other more advanced courses
focused on the techniques of geographic inquiry. Most of these techniques are quantitative and
utilize computing technology extensively.
As stated in the syllabus, the course seeks to build students’ information literacy in general, but
specifically in the realm of geographic information. Parallel to this goal, students also must
achieve a basic level of proficiency in computer software skills, as evidenced by ability to
complete assignments as HTML-based web pages, use basic image editing software, implement
concepts of file structure and management, and carry out a variety of web-based exercises
pertinent to various realms of geographic information.
To this end, the course progresses through a series of themes. The list below outlines the themes
and examples of supporting problem-based exercises. Module numbers refer to attached
syllabus; complete exercises are posted at http://geography.asu.edu/btl/370/modules.htm.
1. Web page creation and file management: The course begins with a brief introduction
to server-client technology, file management procedures needed to create a series of
linked web pages, legal aspects of web page creation, and web design principles.
Module 1: Students create a home page for the course, and post it to ASU’s
personal web hosting space. Instruction is based on use of Microsoft Word for
web page creation, and SSH Secure Shell for web posting; although students may
use alternate software if they choose.
2. Map projections and coordinate systems: These mathematically-based systems
provide the basis for technologies and techniques introduced in the remainder of the
course.
Module 2: Using web-based map projection software, students choose and
construct appropriate map projections for various purposes. They use basic
graphics editing software to prepare images of map projections for their web
pages. Different graphics file types and the basics of graphics file compression
are discussed in this exercise.
3. Global Positioning Systems: These popular satellite-based navigation systems, used in
scientific mapping as well as numerous navigation applications, form the basis of a
discussion of the physics of EM (Electromagnetic) radiation and the mathematics of
determining location from distance and time measurements.
Module 3: Students collect data using handheld GPS units, and compare
locations measured with the same locations identified on air photos, to analyze
error in the GPS technology. The module develops spatial and mathematical
skills in basic map reading and (x, y) coordinate determination and analysis.
4. Census and survey data: The well-known decennial census is used here to discuss
sampling strategies, randomness, the nature of social science data, and issues associated
with aggregation of data
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Module 4: Students explore use of US Census web site to find census and
sampled data, learn to distinguish the two, and create maps representing census
survey data using an interactive mapping interface on the Census web site. Here,
they are introduced to very basic techniques in spreadsheet use and analysis.
5. Remote sensing: The important geographical technique that includes aerial, RADAR,
and satellite imagery is introduced and used as the basis for a discussion of
electromagnetic radiation, change detection, and digital image processing.
Module 5: Students interpret images of an area in 4 wavelength ranges; using
reflectance values that they estimate, together with a spectral reflectance graph,
to identify land cover in the imaged area. The exercise introduces basic
principles of digital image processing including resolution, color separation,
filtering, and visualization of non-visible EM bands.
6. Geographic Information Systems: The ability to understand and use GIS software is a
highly sought-after skill set. Here, we introduce concepts associated with these
geographic modeling systems, including components of data capture, data management,
analysis, and output options.
Module 6: Students create a simple data dictionary based on conversion of a
paper map to digital data layers, and use a web-based interactive GIS to carry out
queries and simple analysis.
By the end of the course, students will be familiar with a variety of computer-based geographic
technologies, will have skills in evaluating data produced by these technologies, and will have an
introductory level of experience in using each of these technologies, based on a problem-solving
approach that requires both analysis and implementation of procedures.
.
A proposed Learning Outcome Objectives plan for GPH 370 follows, summarizing the
relationship between CS General Studies Objectives, specific course performance objectives and
assessment measures.
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LOA Plan for Geographic Information Technology (GPH 370)
ASU (CS) General
Studies standards that
students will be expected
to accomplish:
Specific performance objectives that
students are expected to master:
Assessment of Performance
Objectives:
1. Course involves the use of
computer programming
languages or software programs
for quantitative analysis,
modeling, simulation,
animation, or statistics
Students will be able to use appropriate
computer software to:
 Written reports of problem-based
lab exercises, turned in as web
pages linked to a student-created
class web site
 Create and update an HTML-based web site
 Carry out the following geographic
modeling tasks:
 Written exams
o Construct a variety of map projections
o Plot geographic locations utilizing
Global Positioning Systems Technology
o Interpret remotely-sensed imagery
o Carry out simple functions of
Geographic Information Analysis
 Carry out simple analyses of census-based
demographic data
2. Course requires students to
analyze and implement
procedures that are applicable
to the following problem
domains:

Spreadsheet analysis,
systems analysis and
design, and decision
support systems

Graphic/artistic design
using computers

Modeling, making
extensive use of computer
simulation.
Students will be able to:
Construct a spreadsheet from demographic
data, and use the spreadsheet to carry out
descriptive statistical analyses
Use graphic design principles to create
effective web pages
 Written reports of problem-based
lab exercises, turned in as web
pages linked to a student-created
class web site
 Written exams
Select map projections appropriate for various
purposes, and develop parameters necessary to
create these projections
Assess error in Global Positioning Systems data
Describe the modeling functions of remotesensing technology, including its basis in
principles of electromagnetic radiation (EM)
and digital image processing. Be able to carry
out an analysis of remotely-sensed data for
identification of geographic phenomena.
Describe the modeling functions of Geographic
Information Systems software, including
options and considerations in data capture, data
management, analysis and output.
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