GEOG 222 - The Power of Maps and GIS

Maps are essential tools for geographers and others who use spatial information and study spatial phenomena. Maps can be used to both explore and present data, and they play an important role in our society. This course is an introduction to maps and cartography, with an emphasis on how they relate to geographic information systems (GIS). Major topics include data sources, the map abstraction process, “map infrastructure” (scale, projections, reference systems, accuracy), map types, use, and interpretation. Course material covers technical and social issues as well as applications. The growing role of the World Wide Web (WWW) in providing data, maps, and GIS functions will be emphasized- with many WWW-based exercises integrated into the course. Geography 222 serves as an introduction to courses in cartography and geographic information systems (GIS). No prerequisites; open to all students. Fall, Spring (Group I)