ENVR 158 Introduction to Geomatics

School of Environment and Geomatics

ENVR 158 Introduction to Geomatics is an introduction to applied mapping and geographic information systems (GIS) theory and applications. The first half of the course will be focused on introducing basic uses of remotely sensed imagery and exploring applied mapping technologies, including Google Earth and Internet Mapping websites. The second half of the semester will be focused on learning basic Geographic Information System concepts and applying GIS technologies to environmental, renewable resource management, and planning fields. Emphasis will be placed on how geographic data is represented, collected, managed, analyzed, and displayed using GIS tools. Hands-on experience will be developed with desktop GIS software, ESRI's ArcGIS for Desktop.

Accessibility Services Notice

Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.

Transfer Agreements

Course to Course transfer – YesBlock Transfer – Yesbctransferguide.ca
Course Details
Total number of weeks15
Total Credits
Total Hours45
Typical hours per week breakdown
Lecture1
Lab (lab, field, computer)2

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

  1. Interpret basic remote sensing imagery data to answer questions related to natural resource management, including an assessment of accuracy and error
  2. Identify common land use features and topography on imagery
  3. Access geospatial data online from various federal and provincial data sources
  4. Use a variety of internet mapping applications in combination with Global Positioning Systems (GPS) data to solve natural resource questions and present data
  5. Apply basic GIS concepts in order to view, query, create and geospatial explore data
  6. Design and produce thematic maps using basic cartographic principles

Teaching and Learning Approach

The course will include a mix of theory, discussion, demonstration, guided application, and independent lab time. Quizzes will include practical and theory elements.

Learning Resources

Required: Reference materials will be made available during the class in the form of handouts, website references, and digital material as posted.

Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered

1. Course overview, introduction to Remote Sensing applications using Google Earth, and introduction to image interpretation. 2. Remote Sensing - how it works 3. Satellite imagery (continued) 4. Aerial Photography 5. Internet Map Services (IMS) and Citizen Mapping 6. Midterm 1 and Digital Landscaping 7. Reading week 8. Introduction to GIS concepts and terms, comparison of data models 9. Intro to ArcGIS Pro (continued) Map Symbols, Categories, Cartography, base features 10. Midterm 2 and Cartography 11. Coordinate Systems 12. Spatial Analysis and querying the attributes in GIS 13. Creating GIS Data 14. Review 15. Final Exam

Assessment

TitleLearning OutcomesValue
Task 1 Two midterms tests1, 2, 520%
Task 2 Ten weekly Lab Assignments1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 660%
Task 3 Final Test4, 520%
Total100%

Grading Table

Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table

Percentage Letter Grade GPA
90-100 A+ 4.33
85-89 A 4.00
80-84 A- 3.67
76-79 B+ 3.33
72-75 B 3.00
68-71 B- 2.67
64-67 C+ 2.33
60-63 C 2.00
55-59 C- 1.67
50-54 P 1.00
0-49 F 0.00
  DNW 0.00

See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.

Disclaimer

Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.