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GIS I: Basics of Geographic Information Systems
GIS I: Grundlagen der Geografischen Informationssysteme
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:20
Abstract
A geographic information system (GIS) is used to collect, manage, analyse, and present spatial data. This course teaches the theoretical foundations and concepts and provides hands-on experience on practice-relevant examples, using ArcGIS Pro software.After completing the course, students will be able to work out solutions to simple GIS problems on their own.
Objective
Students will be able to - explain the components and theoretical principles of a GIS using examples. - identify the necessary data for a simple spatial problem and model it conceptually using the Unified Modeling Language (UML). - set up a clean project and database structure using ArcGIS Pro software. - search and download data from data portals/GIS browsers in appropriate formats or integrate it into a project using Web Map Services (WMS),Web Feature Services (WFS) or Web Coverage Service (WCS). - evaluate the quality of geospatial data. - georeference raster data, and map and digitize objects. - perform simple vector and raster analysis and critically evaluate the results. - visualize the results in the form of a map, considering the accessibility for different groups of people. - independently develop a solution to simple spatial problems on a conceptual basis and implement it professionally using software.
Content
The following topics are covered in the course: - Definition of GIS and geospatial data - Representation of reality using vector and raster data models - 4 phases of data modeling: spatial, conceptual, logical, physical model - Data acquisition options and procurement of spatial data (open source) - Spatial analysis I: query and manipulation of vector data - Spatial analysis II: operators and functions with raster data - Digital elevation models, as special representatives of raster data, and products derived from them - Process modelling with vector and raster data - Presentation options for spatial data.
Resources
Literature
Ralf Bill (2023): Grundlagen der Geo-Informationssysteme. 7., vollständig neu bearbeitete und erweitete Auflage 2023. Wichmann Verlag. Heidelberg.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 50
- Signup End
- 28.09.2026
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | GIS I: Grundlagen der Geografischen Informationssysteme | No time listed | 2 h weekly |
| practical/laboratory course |
GIS I: Grundlagen der Geografischen Informationssysteme
Für die Übungen werden die Studierenden auf zwei Zeitfenster aufgeteilt. Eine Zuteilung erfolgt spätestens am Ende der ersten Semesterwoche.
|
No time listed | 3 h weekly |
Offered In
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Environmental Planning (101-0515-00 Projektmanagement and 103-0313-00 Raum- und Landschaftsentwicklung are prerequisites for the Master's degree programme in Spatial Development and Infrastructure Systems and should be successfully completed in the Bachelor's degree if possible.)
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