CFR 250 introduces the technical use of geographic information systems (GIS) in natural resource management and earth sciences. The course is directed at giving students an understanding of, and experience with, the practical use of GIS software, hardware, and data. Lab exercises and course projects will use real-world data sets.

Upon completion of the course, students will have a general understanding of GIS data structures (vector and raster), operations and analysis, and data output (maps, tables, measurements, statistics).

Because GIS is both a tool not only for analysis, but also communication, students will be required to prepare graphical and written materials, much as would be expected in a professional setting.

While a substantial amount of time will be spent on theoretical aspects of GIS, theory will be covered only as it applies to the understanding and support of practical knowledge. As a practical course, CFR 250 will focus strongly on software use, lab exercises, and very little on readings. However, it must be stressed that complete and solid GIS skills cannot be obtained without the thorough understanding of theoretical aspects of GIS, which are beyond the scope of this course. For a better course on GIS theory, consider Nick Chrisman's GEOG 460. For a better course on cartographic principles and symbolization, consider GEOG 360.

Phil Hurvitz
Office: 355 Bloedel Hall
Office Phone: 206.685.8179
E-mail: phurvitz@u.washington.edu
WWW: http://gis.washington.edu/phurvitz

See Contacts page

By the end of the first week of classes, students will be expected to:

The course is structured around paired lecture/discussion and lab sessions. Topics introduced in discussion sessions will be explored in greater depth and applied to real data during lab sessions. Semi-weekly exercises will be augmented with weekly assignments.

You will be required to participate in discussion sessions.

Grades will be based solely on periodic assignments. There are no exams. There are 10 assignments due, one each week during the quarter.

Written assignments and examinations shall be typed and double-spaced, and saved in Adobe PDF format. Zipped PDF files are to be submitted using Catalyst. If you do not know how to create PDF files or use Catalyst, see the instructions.

Graduate students taking credit for CFR 590 will need to complete a short paper or analytical project (pass/fail) in addition to the other requirements. If you are a graduate student, make sure you know what your minimum passing score is. If you fall below the minimum score, you may not pass the course!

If you are auditing, taking Pass/Fail, Credit/No Credit, Satisfactory/Not Satisfactory, it is your responsibility to be aware of University policies regarding passing scores. If you do not achieve a passing score, grades will NOT be altered after they have been submitted.

Periodic assignments are posted on the course schedule, to be completed and uploaded to the Catalyst E-submit site before lecture time on the due date.

Late assignments will NOT be accepted in any way, shape, or form, even if your assignment is only 1 minute late.

Cumulative grades will be posted as soon as assignments and exams are graded.

Grades will be assigned according to University of Washington grading policy. Percent scores will be transformed to point scores according to a linear regression of the interval (0.7, 4.0) on the interval (51%, 96%), where the minimum passing score is 0.7 (51%), and 96% or above is a 4.0, listed in the following matrix: