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Geographic Information Science

Instructor: Dr. Dawn Wright, dawn@dusk.geo.orst.edu, 114 Wilkinson, 737-1229

Course Overview: GIS is hot stuff nowadays, but what is it that truly makes it hot? In other words, what is geographic information science? What are the leading theoretical questions and issues surrounding the use geospatial data, and the cognitive, computational and societal implications of the technology? Here is your opportunity to find out, along with ~100 students across the country. GEO 507 will be a national, web-based reading/discussion seminar in Geographic Information Science that will be taught simultaneously at several American universities. You will be interacting with students and faculty using the Blackboard distance education software program. As you engage in discussion, you'll not only receive a broad overview of the "hot" theoretical questions, but exposure to and fresh perspectives on different academic backgrounds. Students on all campuses will proceed through a common syllabus, drawing on the expertise of faculty (well-known GIS "experts") from around the country in several cutting-edge research specialties. Universities involved are all members of the University Consortium for Geographic Information Science (UCGIS, www.ucgis.org).

Prerequisites: Graduate standing. Technical expertise in GIS software use or programming is NOT required. GEO 565 or 580 will be extremely helpful, though not required.

Class Meetings and Office Hours: Class meetings (Mondays, 3:00-3:50) will be augmented by web-based group discussions. Faculty will hold discussion periods and electronic office hours available to all participating students across the nation. Nationwide student interaction will be encouraged.

Readings: Readings will be provided on the web. Three main themes will be covered, each with a 4-5 page white paper followed by a short bibliographic list. The seminar will cover each theme individually. You will be expected to read all of the literature on the web site, and expand your reading for one theme. You will read and critique other students' work, and contribute to class discussions. You will also be expected to contribute to the online discussion forum, and to permit your written work and online discussions to be published on the virtual seminar web site.

Last updated 30 September 2002
http://dusk.geo.orst.edu/virtual/

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