GEOG 1110: The Digital Earth

3 Credit Hours

This is a survey course for students with an interest in geographic theories, laws, fundamentals, methods, environmental applications and visualizing natural phenomena. With a focus on physical geography, students learn about geographic principles of place and space, as well as introductory geospatial techniques such as map reading, coordinate systems, scale, distance, direction, global positioning system (GPS), geographic information system (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial analysis. Students also learn basic skills in collecting, manipulating, and understanding geospatial data by creating and analyzing maps, aerial photos and satellite imagery to solve problems and interpret the environment.

Course Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

Identify and interpret scientific theories, laws and methods employed by geospatial visualization.
Demonstrate cartographic understanding, map interpretations, and map analysis underscoring central principles in geography.
Generate geospatial products, outlining a practical understanding of GIS concepts, techniques, and real-world applications.
Examine geographic fundamentals, linking the dynamic nature of earth’s environment to recognize impacts and construct solutions evident in historic and contemporary context.
Evaluate geospatial data and geospatial tools such as GIS, GPS, and remote sensing within the framework of the local and global environment, to understand their essential role in our daily lives, decision making, and discern environmental change.
Use the scientific method and laboratory procedures to analyze data, solve problems, and explain natural phenomena.