Maui Community College
Course Outline
1. Alpha and Number
Information & Computer Science 150
ICS 150
Course Title
Introduction to GIS/GPS
Credits
4
Date of Outline
September 2007 (A. Coopersmith)
2. Course Description
Introduces applications of geographic information systems (GIS) with a
special emphasis on using ArcView GIS. Includes database construction
and techniques for spatial data manipulation, analysis, and display.
Teaches use of global positioning system (GPS.) Explores crossdisciplinary applications in the natural and social sciences. Cross-listed as
GIS 150.
2. Contact Hours/Type
6/lecture-lab
4. Prerequisites
ICS 101 or BUSN 150 with grade C or better.
Prerequisite may be waived by consent x yes
no
Corequisites
Recommended Preparation
Familiarity with computer databases.
______________________________________________________
______________________
Chancellor
Date
Revised 9/8/07
Course Outline, page 1
2
5. General Course Objectives
GIS 150 is designed to provide an introduction to the use of global positioning system (GPS) and
experiences with geographic information systems (GIS) such as ArcView GIS.
For detailed information on how GIS 150 focuses on the Maui Community College general education
standards, see the attached curricular grid.
For the MCC A.A. Degree in Liberal Arts, GIS 150 fulfills four of the seven credits for Category II,
Breadth of Understanding & Experience, Environmental Awareness.
6. Student Learning Outcomes
For assessment purposes, link these to #7. Recommended Course Content, and #9. Recommended
Course Requirements and Evaluation
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to
a. use a GPS unit to find locations, and import GPS data into ArcGIS for further investigations;
b. use basic ArcGIS desktop software functions such as displaying, analyzing, and modifying maps;
c. plan, organize, and present a GIS research project.
7. Recommended Course Content and Approximate Time Spent on Each Topic
Link to #6. Student Learning Outcomes
1-2 weeks
Background of GIS: theory, geography, map projections, datums (a,b)
1-2 weeks
Basics of GIS: visualization of database structure, database design, overview of
database models (a,b)
1-3 weeks
Introduction to ESRI software: overview of desktop GIS, web-based GIS, handheld
GPS (a,b)
1-3 weeks
Introduction to ArcGIS: installation, review of features, map exercise, alternatives (b)
2-4 weeks
Introduction to GPS: essentials of GPS technology, introduction to hardware, field use
and field activities, data collection (a)
2-4 weeks
Integration of data collected with existing spatial layers (a,b)
1-2 weeks
Project design (a,b,c)
4-6 weeks
Project: geodatabase construction, data collection, data entry, spatial analysis,
hypothesis testing (a,b,c)
Report: Development of output to present key findings, media presentation, written
report (a,b,c)
3
8. Text and Materials, Reference Materials, Auxiliary Materials, and Content
Appropriate text(s) and materials will be chosen at the time the course is offered from those currently
available in the field, such as
ESRI. 2007. ArcGIS 9 Introduction: GISTheory
9. Recommended Course Requirements and Evaluation
Linked to #6. Student Learning Outcomes
Specific course requirements are at the discretion of the instructor at the time the course is being offered.
Suggested requirements might include, but are not limited to
10-50%
5-20%
5-20%
5-20%
0-20%
5-20%
5-50%
5-50%
0-20%
0-20%
0-10%
examinations including written quizzes, midterm(s) and/or a final covering lectures,
discussions, media presentations, computer exercises, field activities, and reading
assignments (a,b,c);
GPS field exercises and data collection (b);
ArcGIS computer activities and assignments (a,b,c);
reading assigned text and resource materials, writing outlines, notes and/or answering
discussion questions (a,b,c);
participation in class discussions (a,b,c);
applying critical thinking skills to solve problems and challenges (a,b,c);
projects (a,b,c)
group/individual project presentations: PowerPoint, oral, poster, and/or written (a,b,c);
other group/individual presentations: PowerPoint, oral, poster, and/or written (a,b,c);
civic engagement, community service aand/or Service-Learning activities (a,b,c); and
punctuality, attendance, and participation.
10. Methods of Instruction
Instructional methods will vary considerably with instructors. Specific methods will be at the discretion
of the instructor teaching the course and might include, but are not limited to
exams and quizzes with feedback and discussion;
lectures and class discussions;
narrated PowerPoint presentations;
demonstrations of equipment and software programs;
videos, DVDs, CD-ROMs, and/or podcasts with detailed viewing guides and discussion questions;
computer techniques, activities, and assignments;
field activities including wayfinding and data collection;
problem-solving and critical thinking activities;
sstudent reports and presentations;
games and simulations;
individual and group class activities and homework assignments such as
mapping selected sites;
reading text and reference materials and answering discussion questions;
4
web-based assignments and activities;
guest speakers;
reflective journals;
group and/or individual research projects with reports or other types of presentations;
study logs and study groups;
Service-Learning, community service, and/or civic engagement projects; and
other contemporary learning techniques (such as problem-based learning, investigative case-based
learning, co-op, internships, and self-paced programs.)