The aim of the course is to provide thourough knowledge about Geographic Information Systems. Particular attention will be given to explain the fundamental characteristics of cartographic data and representations. Data sources and outputs will be discussed and a specific training on GIS tools will be offered.

- Knowledge and understanding:

  Knowledge of fundamental characteristics of cartographic data and, more in general, of georeferenced data. 

  Knowledge of the most common cartographic representations, of their characteristics and of their use.

  Knowledge and awareness about precision, characteristics and quality of georeferenced data.

  Knowledge of a GIS structure, of its functions and of its database characteristics and design techniques.

  Knowledge about the main algorithms for geospatial data processing.

  Knowledge and understanding of characteristics and limitations of the main information sources for a GIS system (such as topographic maps, remotely sensed images, ...)

  Basic knowledge of the Geoservices defined by International Standards and of WebGIS architecture.

- Applying knowledge and understanding:

  Knowledge of ArcGIS software and ability to use it as decision support system in hazard and risk management.

- Making judgments:

  Ability to understand geographic data quality and their fit for use with respect to different applications.

- Communication skills:

  Ability to prepare an adequate report presenting the analyses and the maps produced with the GIS software. Ability to discuss the learned topic during an oral test.

- Learning skills:

  Ability to autonomously delve deeper into the topics taught during classes, considering different sources.

 The content is exposed through lectures and laboratory exercises. The course deals with the following main topics:

• Principles of cartographic representations, concept of scale, datums and mapping grids, representation of heights, errors and mapping tolerances; 
• Geographic Information Systems;
• Geographic data models and structures (raster and vector); 
• Vector data operators;
• Raster data operators: map algebra (global, local and neighbouring operators); 
• 3D surface modelling (TIN and GRID);
• Database design;
• Datum and Cartographic transformations;
• Production process of maps: principles of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing;
• Web services and WebGIS;
• Meta-information, data quality and interoperability.
• Practical laboratory activity: aimed at becoming familiar with GIS software and functions and at handling maps and geographic data in general. Some specific problems about the use of GIS in hazard and risk management are presented. Exercises are based on the use of a popular proprietary desktop GIS software package (ESRI® ArcGIS). A case study is analyzed during the second part of the course and maps for hazard analysis are produced with ArcGIS.

The students need a basic knowledge about:

- file management,

- digital data manipulation,

- basic principles of Statistics, Mathematics and Geometry, including differential equations and matrix algebra,

- report writing.

A report discussing the case study must be submitted. The exam consists in the evaluation of the report plus an oral or written test.

During the exam the expected learning outcomes will be tested. The knowledge and understanding about the main topics of the course, concerning cartographic representations, GIS data characteristics, GIS data sources, such as Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry, main geodata processing algorithms, data quality and geodata publication on Internet will be assessed.

In addition, the full understanding of the work done for the project will be verified.