Natural Resources: Intro to Geog Info Systems (OL1)

About NR 2430 OL1

Understanding and application of computer-based, geographically-referenced information systems. Prerequisite: Minimum Sophomore standing.

Notes

Asynchronous online

Section Description

NR 2430: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is an intensive, skills-based course that introduces foundational concepts and applied techniques in spatial analysis. Students learn how geographic data are structured, managed, analyzed, and communicated using industry-standard tools including ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online. Key topics include coordinate systems and map projections, vector and raster data models, attribute tables and queries, spatial joins, vector and raster geoprocessing, cartographic design, web mapping, public data repositories, and introductory remote sensing.

The course emphasizes structured workflow design, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving applied to environmental and natural resource questions. Students develop fluency in managing geospatial data, diagnosing common technical errors, and producing clear, presentation-quality maps and web applications. The course uses Mastering ArcGIS Pro (2nd ed.) by Maribeth H. Price as a supporting text alongside guided labs and applied case studies.

Course Goals and Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

Demonstrate a practical understanding of core GIS concepts, terminology, and real-world applications.

Distinguish between vector and raster data models and evaluate appropriate uses of each.

Identify and assess coordinate systems and projections for spatial analysis tasks.

Store, manage, and retrieve spatial and tabular data in multiple formats.

Design and execute structured GIS workflows to analyze environmental and natural resource questions.

Perform attribute queries, spatial queries, joins, and geoprocessing operations.

Create new geospatial data through digitizing and geocoding.

Produce professional-quality maps and basic web applications that communicate spatial information clearly and effectively.

Section Expectation

This course is delivered in a fully asynchronous format over four intensive weeks. There are no scheduled class meetings. All instructional content—including lecture material, software demonstrations, and lab walkthroughs—will be provided as recorded videos and written guides within Brightspace. Students are expected to engage with materials in sequence and adhere to weekly deadlines.

The course is structured around applied laboratory assignments. Students will complete approximately four structured labs per week, designed to build progressively from foundational GIS skills to more independent spatial analysis. Short reading quizzes will accompany selected modules to reinforce conceptual understanding. There are no exams and no participation grade; final grades are based solely on lab assignments and reading quizzes.

Because this is an accelerated course, students should expect to spend approximately 15–25 hours per week engaging with course materials, completing labs, troubleshooting workflows, and reviewing feedback. GIS work is iterative and often requires additional time for problem-solving.

Remote office hours will be held weekly via Microsoft Teams. All technical and content questions should be posted to the course discussion forum to support shared troubleshooting and collaborative learning.

Required materials for this course include:

A reliable computer capable of running ArcGIS Pro (Windows OS) or access to UVM’s Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) with stable internet (>5 Mbps recommended).

Access to ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online through UVM.

Mastering ArcGIS Pro, 2nd Edition by Maribeth H. Price (ISBN 9781264091201).

Evaluation

Grades in this course are based entirely on applied lab assignments and short reading quizzes. There are no exams and no participation grade.

Because this course is skills-based and fully asynchronous, evaluation emphasizes demonstrated proficiency in GIS workflows, spatial analysis, data management, and cartographic communication. Lab assignments are designed to build progressively in complexity and independence. Students are assessed on accuracy of analysis, completeness of workflow steps, quality of map outputs, data organization, and clarity of submitted materials.

Reading quizzes assess conceptual understanding of foundational GIS principles (e.g., coordinate systems, data models, projections, geoprocessing logic) and ensure students are prepared to apply those concepts in lab work.

Final grades are calculated as follows:

Lab Assignments: 85%

Reading Quizzes: 15%

Labs must be submitted by the posted deadlines. Because assignments build sequentially in this accelerated format, timely submission is essential for maintaining progress. Detailed grading rubrics will be provided for all major assignments to ensure transparent and consistent evaluation.

Important Dates

Note: These dates may change before registration begins.

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

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