Syllabus

Revised 12/30/2023

Geog 291: Geospatial Analysis with Desktop GIS
Spring Semester 2024: Module 1: 1/17/2024 to 3/5/2024
Meetings: Arranged

Instructor: Dr. John Krygier
Office: Schimmel-Conrades Science Center 206
Office Hours: Make an appointment here or email for other times. I’m typically around during the appointment site hours unless I have an appointment. Check SCSC 206 and 207.
jbkrygier@owu.edu | http://krygier.owu.edu

GEOG 291 Geospatial Analysis with Desktop GIS familiarizes students with software for performing geospatial analysis with a focus on desktop (PC) software, ArcGIS Pro. An overview of software functions and capabilities is provided, along with hands-on work with the software. Progress is assessed with a series of applied exercises. This is a semi-independent course, with progress posted to this blog, arranged meetings with the instructor, and assistance as needed from the instructor.

Meetings: This 0.5 credit module course was designed to be flexible and fit into any schedule. I’ve tried required meetings (one hour a week), voluntary meetings (three scheduled hours a week) and meetings on demand. For the Spring of 2024, let’s go with the meetings on demand: you can make an appointment ( here ) or come find me during those appointment hours in 206 or 207 SCSC. Some students enjoy working in the lab during my office hours on a regular basis: 

  • M: 9:15-10, 11-1:30
  • Tu: 9:15-1
  • W: 9:15-10, 11-noon, 1
  • F: 9:15-10, 11-1:30

Time commitment: I’ve found that most students can get the work for this course done in less than 6 hours per week. If you come in 3 hours a week, like a normal class, you will probably get most of the work done.

Learning Objectives

  • Understanding key concepts, functions, and operation of desktop GIS software
  • Ability to perform different analytical tasks given a selection of different kinds of real-world data 
  • Understand how desktop GIS could be used in applications specific to student’s academic interests

Readings

GIS Lab: 207 SCSC

Most of you are familiar with the GIS Lab (207 SCSC). You will need to use one of the computers in the GIS lab for this course. ArcGIS Pro is available on all of these computers. Pick one, and put a note on the computer: Geog 291 <Name>. It’s ok to ask someone in the class to move computers if your stuff is on the specific computer, but be nice. Check the schedule outside SCSC 207 to see when the room is available.

I’ll give you a secret code to get in the room after hours (it’s open 7am-7pm M-F) and also get your OWU ID card access to the Science Center.

ArcGIS Software

ArcGIS Pro requires Windows Desktop: If you have a suitable computer, you can install ArcGIS Pro on it: ArcGIS Pro 3.0 System Requirments. You should be able to download ArcGIS Pro via your ArcGIS Online account.

ArcGIS Online works on any newer browser and computer. I’ll provide you with an OWU ArcGIS Online account. Make sure you are logging into the OWU ArcGIS account (it’s easy to log into a free, low-function account for some reason).