GIS

This course provides students with fundamental theoretical knowledge and practical skills in
Geographic Information Systems (GIS), along with a comprehensive understanding of geospatial
technologies, enabling spatial data analysis and visualization for performing environmental
monitoring and supporting decision-making processes. It contributes to the study program
objectives by by fostering skills in digital cartography, data-driven analysis, and promoting
interdisciplinary data-driven problem-solving.

By the end of the course, students will understand the fundamental principles and be familiar with
the main components of GIS to use them, becoming proficient especially with the open-source GIS
software QGIS. In particular, student will be able to:
- explain the key principles and applications of GIS
- manage, analyze, and visualize spatial data
- apply coordinate systems and map projections
- collect and process geospatial data, including data from fieldwork and remote sensing
- perform basic spatial analyses
- produce cartographic digital outputs, thematic maps, and spatially-explicit reports
- use GIS tools for environmental problem-solving and decision-making support

No specific conceptual prerequisites are required to succeed in this course. However, a good level of computer literacy and basic knowledge of statistics will be beneficial. Students are required to have access to a laptop (Linux, Mac, or Windows) for the practical exercises.

The course offers a path to gain knowledge from the fundamental types of spatial data, up to the ability to create and manage complex and articulated GIS projects with multiple data type and analysis approach.
Introduction to GIS: Fundamental concepts, components, environmental applications
- Coordinate Systems and Reference Systems: Map projections, spatial referencing, EPSG codes
- Open Source GIS Software: Introduction to QGIS, installation, interface. Plugins and project structure
- Vector Data: Spatial data types, file extensions. Vector types, creation, editing, saving. Attribute tables and field calculator
- Raster Data: Raster formats. Tiles, layers, and bands. Uploading, visualization, editing, saving. Raster calculator
- Thematic Cartography and Mapping: Symbology, labeling, classification, legend creation
- Data Sources and Web Services: WMS, WFS, tiles and basemaps, open environmental datasets
- Geodatabase Files: Creation and management of geodatabases
- Field Survey I: Introduction to field data collection; project setup, mobile devices; testing
- Field Survey II: Field survey: data acquisition, team survey
- Data Import and Cleaning: Importing, converting, georeferencing
- Basic Spatial Analysis: Basic geoprocessing operations
- Advanced Spatial Analysis: Advanced geoprocessing operations
- Print Layouts and Reporting: Creating print-ready maps and map reports
- Remote Sensing Fundamentals: Introduction to RS. Satellite imagery, integration in QGIS, visualization. Satellite imagery, image types, resolution, metadata. Satellite data sources
- Remote Sensing and GIS Integration: Image import, band manipulation. Spectral indices in QGIS
- Environmental Applications: Case studies focused on remote sensing and GIS technologies applications in ecology and environmental sciences

Teaching materials provided during the course (slides, videos and multimedia contents, selected readings). Free and open-source textbook “Essentials of Geographic Information Systems”, available online via the
Open Textbook Library by following the link: https://open.umn.edu/opentextbooks/textbooks/67

Project-based assessment, with a final discussion focusing on the project’s objectives, implemented analysis methods, and interpretation of results.

oral

Scores in the range 18-21 range: limited and often superficial knowledge of the topics covered in the classes; unclear and lacking in technical terminology oral presentation .

Scores in the range 22-25: not always in-depth knowledge of the topics covered in the classes; orderly oral presentation but with not always correct use of technical terminology;

Scores in the range 26-27: good knowledge of the topics covered in the classes; fair ability to organize information and present it orally; familiarity with technical terminology;

Scores in the range 28-30: excellent mastery of the topics covered in the classes; ability to hierarchize information and correct use of appropriate technical terminology.

Honors will be awarded in the presence of excellent judgment and communication ability, and excellent understanding of the program's topics."

The course is prepared in accordance with the principles of Universal design for learning to foster an inclusive, accessible, and participatory learning environment. Teaching methods combine focused lectures with hands-on practice, cooperative learning activities, and outdoor experiences. Emphasis is placed on multiple means of engagement and expression, allowing students to approach content in diverse ways and contribute according to their strengths. Students with Special Educational Needs or Specific Learning Disorders are encouraged to talk at the earliest convenience with the teacher to find the best support for the learning path and the exam.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Natural capital and environmental quality" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development