An intelligent expert system shell for knowledge-based Geographical Information Systems: 1. The tools

Abstract

An intelligent expert system shell for the development of knowledge-based geographical information systems (GIS) is examined in this two-part article. Basic concepts and the overall architecture of the shell are discussed in the present part. Fuzzy logic and expert systems technology are demonstrated to be appropriate methods for approximating human reasoning and enhancing the level of intelligence in GIS. The shell can be employed as an effective and efficient tool for developing knowledge-based GIS.     

Early applications of geographical information systems at the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology

Abstract

The Institute of Terrestrial Ecology (ITE) Digital Cartographic Service provides a range of services to the scientists of ITE (and others) including various techniques within the field of geographical information systems (GIS). This paper discusses work of this type as it is applied to specific ITE projects. The emphasis is very much on GIS applications to ‘real ecological science’ such as the ‘acid water’ problem and the change of forest areas into heathland. Some comments are made on fundamental GIS techniques, their use and limitations. At ITE, GIS applications are growing out of an existing use of digital mapping and remote sensing technologies; they have not purchased a GIS system ‘off the shelf.’     

The Implementation and Effectiveness of Geographic Information Systems Technology and Methods in Secondary Education

Abstract

Geographic information systems (GIS) technology and methods have transformed decision-making in society by bringing geographic analysis to the desktop computer. Although some educators consider GIS to be a promising means for implementing reform, it has been adopted by less than 2 percent of American high schools. The reasons behind the interest in GIS, its slow implementation, and its effectiveness in teaching and learning are unclear. To address these concerns, this research describes the extent to which GIS is being implemented in American secondary education and assesses the effectiveness of lessons that use GIS. A survey of 1,520 high schools that own GIS software, along with experiments and case studies in three high schools, provided primary data for assessing the implementation and effectiveness of GIS.     

A review of temporal database research and its use in GIS applications

Abstract

A great deal of recent work in computer science applies itself to temporal database design. Designers of geographical information systems (GIS) can build on this work to create a temporal GIS capability to trace geographical change and understand geographical processes. This paper reviews temporal research in information processing, contrasts various proposed temporal database designs and summarizes the problems of adapting it to GIS requirements.     

Geographic Information Technologies and the History of a Shoreline: The Case of Chapter 91 in New Bedford,Massachusetts

Abstract

This article discusses the use of geographic information technologies to assist researchers in the exploration of historical databases. The case study is a pilot project in which we used geographic information systems (GIS) and global positioning systems (GPS) to study the history of the Public Waterfront Act (the “Chapter 91” program), a policy designed to balance private property rights, public interest, and environmental protection in the Massachusetts tidelands. The issues discussed range from the role of GIS in society and its limitations as a representational tool to the ability of current GIS to deal with historical data and to manage temporal attributes.

     

An Assessment of the Use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in Teaching Geography in Singapore Schools

Abstract

In 1998, geographical information systems (GIS) were introduced to secondary schools in Singapore as a tool for teaching geography at the secondary and junior college levels. However, general observations and feedback from school teachers suggested that only a small number of secondary schools and junior colleges in Singapore were actually using GIS to support the teaching and learning of geography. The present research study was designed to establish the level of GIS usage and to investigate the reasons for the slow integration of GIS in the Singapore secondary schools. This article presents the findings of this research and provides some insight into the use of GIS in Singapore secondary schools.     

National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis

Abstract

Abstract. The growth of the remote sensing field has caused and explosion in the size and complexity of Earth satellite image databases. The explosion of data is already challenging current satellite-based GIS databases. New technologies for information management will be required in the future to maintain these large geographically-oriented systems created by projects such as NASA's Earth Observing System (EOS). This paper presents a technology adapted from the planning/scheduling field in Artificial Intelligence (AI) that promises to automate and facilitate the process of creating and storing satellite images and their associated data products.     

The economic evaluation of implementing a GIS

Abstract

Implementation of geographical information systems (GIS) involves a substantial commitment of resources by the sponsoring agency. Economic evaluation of the proposed GIS is an important step in the implementation process. This article discusses the traditional benefit cost analysis and suggests alternative approaches which may prove useful in situations where the benefit cost model may not be appropriate. A case study of an actual implementation of a GIS which illustrates the approaches discussed is also presented.     

Teaching generic GIS using commercial software

Abstract

The debate between training and education in GIS in a university or college setting and whether or not commercial systems should be used in such institutions may be far from resolution, but an indication of the level of interest shown in hands-on, computer-based GIS education using a commercial system is the appearance and growth of the Institute for GIS in Education. The Curriculum Development Toolkit produced by the Institute has involved academic input and evaluation, and contains both generic GIS background information and system-specific computer-based learning materials, used in over 200 academic institutions world-wide.     

Video support in teaching about geographic information systems: a review of six videotapes

Abstract

Abstract. The growing interest in teaching about geographic information systems (GIS) raises a number of issues concerning the effectiveness of conventional instructional methods. To convey basic GIS concepts and applications better requires much more emphasis upon visual media. One such medium is that of VHS (or Beta) videotapes. Six currently-available GIS-oriented videotapes are reviewed for this purpose. Their contents are summarized and an evaluation is made of the usefulness of each in classroom-based GIS instruction.     

THE ARCHIVES OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN GEOGRAPHERS

Although numerous courses in geographic information systems (GIS) have been introduced into the geography curriculum over the past few years, there has been remarkably little debate over the issues involved. This paper first discusses the arguments for geography as an appropriate disciplinary setting for GIS teaching at the undergraduate level. This is followed by a discussion of the nature of GIS courses and their appropriate place in the undergraduate geography curriculum. The final section of the paper describes the NCGIA Core Curriculum project and examines its significance in this broader context.     

GIS In-Service Teacher Training Based on TPACK

Abstract

This article introduces the geographic information systems (GIS) in-service teacher training, focusing on the intersection of technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK) for successful implementation of GIS in the classroom. Eleven social studies teachers in Georgia learned GIS technologies, inquiry-based learning, and social studies so that they could create technology-enhanced and inquiry-based lessons using GIS technologies. This article reports participating teachers’ opinions and attitudes of the TPACK-based GIS training. It also reports useful pedagogical methods of introducing GIS technologies to students and additional support for teachers to help them use GIS in their classrooms more often.     

Improvement of GIS graphics for analysis and decision-making

Abstract

Current geographical information systems (GIS) include functions to create cartographic output interactively or automatically. However, none of the systems presently incorporates mechanisms to ensure correct application of graphic functions. Many of today's users of GIS are not trained in the design and production of graphics and may create maps that confuse or mislead map users. Poorly-designed maps may obliterate the patterns in displayed information.

This article investigates ways to improve the quality of GIS graphical displays and increase their effectiveness for decision-making. Alternatives are presented for improving map design in GIS, ranging from non-technical efforts to enhancement of software functionality. Suggestions propose augmenting users' abilities to create maps in an automated environment, using an approach termed amplified intelligence: key decisions default explicitly to users, whose knowledge is amplified by a range of high-level tools to carry out map design operations automatically.     

Geographical data handling and GIS in China

Abstract

Abstract Chinese governments have long paid a great deal of attention to the collection of geodata, and existing sources have been further enhanced by technological advances, notably in remote sensing. Progress has also been made with automated cartography. An expert working group has been examining GIS and it is recognized that a system combining both national and regional components is most appropriate for China. Three basic functions are envisaged for such GIS: comprehensive regional analysis, prediction of change and the sharing of data. Such systems must serve the needs of users and, in order to demonstrate potential applications, regional experiments are being undertaken, including examples of urban information systems, river basin information systems and specialized systems (e.g. for tourist and forest resources). In the next few years, the emphasis will be on research and on technological preparation for the adoption of GIS, including the use of an experimental set of geographical grid cells. Chinese scholars are also involved in international collaboration in the study of global problems and propose a cooperative programme for a global geographical information system.     

Paper-Based GIS: A Practical Answer to the Implementation of GIS Education into Resource-Poor Schools in South Africa

Abstract

Geographical information systems (GIS) were phased into the geography curriculum of South African schools from 2006–2008 as part of the National Curriculum Statement (NCS) for grades 10–12. Since its introduction, GIS education in schools across the country has been met with a number of challenges including the cost of purchasing the hardware and software required to elucidate the basic concepts of GIS to learners. This article examines the introduction of GIS education in schools in South Africa. The development and distribution of a paper-based GIS educational package for resource-poor schools in the country is also highlighted. Preliminary educator and learner evaluations of the paper-based GIS package are discussed and the broader learning opportunities and benefits associated with flexible teaching mechanisms are examined.     

The use of digital map data in the segmentation and classification of remotely-sensed images

Abstract

Remotely-sensed data constitute a major potential source of input to geographical information systems (GIS)However, these data often have a relatively poor classification accuracy compared with that of the cartographic data from maps with which they may be combined in the course of GIS analysis. The possibility exists of using data sets (in the form of digital maps) resident within a GIS in order to improve this accuracy, before the classified image is incorporated into the GIS. Results are discussed from a British Alvey Information Technology project to develop a system for the knowledge-based segmentation and classification of remotely-sensed terrain images, in which the knowledge contained in digital map     

Integrating multi-criteria evaluation with geographical information systems

Abstract

Geographical information systems (GIS) provide the decision-maker with a powerful set of tools for the manipulation and analysis of spatial information. The functionality of GIS is, however, limited to certain deterministic analyses in key application areas such as spatial search. The integration of multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) techniques with GIS is forwarded as providing the user with the means to evaluate various alternatives on the basis of multiple and conflicting criteria and objectives. An example application based on the search for suitable sites for the disposal of radioactive waste in the UK using the Arc/Info GIS is included. The potential use of a combined GIS-MCE approach in the development of spatial decision support systems is considered.