Foundations of GIS Systems

This unit introduces foundational GIS concepts, data models, cartographic principles, and basic analytical workflows. Students will learn to interpret and manipulate raster and vector data, evaluate data quality and attributes, and use core tools and emerging technologies to prepare for applied modeling and advanced analysis in later units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze and compare raster and vector spatial data models, including their structures, use cases, measurement implications, and methods for locating and identifying features
• Apply cartographic design principles and symbolization to produce clear maps and to construct basic cartographic models using GIS software
• Demonstrate techniques for assessing attribute data quality, performing attribute and spatial queries (searching polygons, measuring connectivity, absolute measurement), and modeling visibility (viewsheds)
• Evaluate GIS tools, programming language options, and AI/ML integrations (e.g., ArcGIS Pro, OpenStreetMap workflows) and design a model-creation workflow that transforms organizational data into actionable geospatial outputs