OVERVIEW

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) represent a powerful and effective tool for managing georeferenced data, finding application in numerous fields, including marine and coastal environments. The outcomes achievable through processing digital data within GIS environments range from generating maps (both general and thematic) to analysing the behaviour of complex phenomena related to the marine ecosystem. This capability enables the development of predictive models and their integration into decision support systems.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The module aims to provide the fundamental theoretical and practical knowledge necessary for managing geographic data using GIS software, with a specific focus on the marine-coastal environment and the application of real-world use cases.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Attendance and participation in the planned training activities will enable students to acquire basic and advanced knowledge in the practical use of GIS software in the coastal marine environment.

Specifically, students will be able to:

Upon completing the course, students will be able to understand and prepare cartographic materials commonly used in coastal management and marine monitoring. They will also be capable of handling, analysing, and presenting georeferenced environmental data.

In detail, students will be able to:

• Create and interpret various types of cartographic materials.
• Properly manage data with different coordinate systems.
• Appropriately represent geographic information using symbols, legends, and labels.
• Visualise, query, and modify the database connected to the data and perform selections (queries).
• Perform digitisation and topological corrections of vector layers.
• Conduct raster and vector geoprocessing operations.
• Handle and analyse digital terrain models.
• Use datasets available online.
• Set up a print layout.
• Apply learned skills to real-world cases.

PREREQUISITES

To successfully follow the course, students should have a basic familiarity with personal computers and a foundational understanding of cartography, geomorphology, and computer science.

TEACHING METHODS

The course consists of lectures and practical exercises carried out using personal computers. Attendance at lectures is highly recommended,while attendance at practical activities is mandatory at 75%. Classroom lectures are delivered through multimedia presentations.

The way lessons are taught may be modified due to emergencies that prevent in-person lessons from being held. In this case, classes will be held via the Teams platform using suitable substitute teaching tools.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

1. General introduction to GIS and Free and Open Source GIS software

2. Most common data formats and external data sources (geoservices): WMS, WFS, OSM, etc.

3. Overview of the most useful plugins (QuickMapService, Processing, GRASS, Profile Tool...)

4. Main geospatial functionalities of GIS software

5. Introduction to QGIS, different types of layers, and an overview of the most relevant plugins

6. Attribute tables, feature and record selection, and data subset extraction

7. Workspace extent, reading point coordinates, project and layer reference systems

8. Adding map elements (scale bar, north arrow, kilometer grid)

9. Practical case studies

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

All slides used during lessons and other teaching materials will be available on AulaWeb at the end of each lesson cycle.

The books listed below are suggested as an example, but students are also encouraged to use other university-level texts.

Amadio G., Introduzione alla Geomatica - Dario Flaccovio Editore, 2012.

Migliaccio F., Carrion D.- Sistemi Informativi Territoriali: Principi e applicazioni.

Seconda Edizione. UTET Università, 2020.

Gomarasca M. - Elementi di Geomatica, Associazione italiana di rilevamento, 2004

Wright, Dawn & Blongewicz, M. & Halpin, Patrick & Breman, Joe. (2007). Arc Marine: GIS for a Blue Planet.

Manuale Quantum GIS (http://www.qgis.org).

LESSONS

LESSONS START

For lessons start and timetable visit:  https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of a written test carried out on a computer, aimed at assessing knowledge of the fundamental elements of the subject through the resolution of a practical problem.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Details regarding the exam preparation and the required depth of knowledge for each topic will be provided during the lessons. The exam will mainly cover the topics discussed during lectures and will be designed to assess not only the knowledge acquired but also the ability to address practical and concrete cases, providing detailed and well-structured responses.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students who have a valid certification of physical or learning disability filed with the University and who wish to request compensatory tools, dispensatory measures or other measures for lessons, assignments and exams, should speak to both the teacher and Professor Sara Ferrando (sara.ferrando@unige.it), contact person for the Department for Disabilities.