Overview

This modules covers a variety of topics relating to GIS and research methods.

Geographical Information Systems: geospatial data types, including raster, vector, primary and secondary, as well as data collection methods, data export formats and data translation. Also covered are data projections (OSGB, WGS84 & lat long); organisation of geospatial data; Structured Query Language (SQL); geoprocessing, such as overlay and boolean data, spatial sampling, modelling and analytical approaches. Final practical use of GIS is also covered using a range of examples and datasets.

Statistics: principles of hypothesis generation, sampling, study design, spatial methods, 1 and 2 way ANOVA for completely randomised designs; 1 factor randomised block ANOVA; correlation coefficient; simple and multiple linear regression; social research methods.

Computer-based data manipulation, analysis and presentation.

Qualitative survey methods.

Literature reviews.

Evidence Synthesis, including systematic review and systematic mapping of research, critical appraisal of research and options for data synthesis.

Students will be encouraged to develop effective learning skills including: production of a honours project proposal; communication skills; and time management.

This modules covers a variety of topics relating to GIS and research methods.

Geographical Information Systems: geospatial data types, including raster, vector, primary and secondary, as well as data collection methods, data export formats and data translation. Also covered are data projections (OSGB, WGS84 & lat long); organisation of geospatial data; Structured Query Language (SQL); geoprocessing, such as overlay and boolean data, spatial sampling, modelling and analytical approaches. Final practical use of GIS is also covered using a range of examples and datasets.

Statistics: principles of hypothesis generation, sampling, study design, spatial methods, 1 and 2 way ANOVA for completely randomised designs; 1 factor randomised block ANOVA; correlation coefficient; simple and multiple linear regression; social research methods.

Computer-based data manipulation, analysis and presentation.

Qualitative survey methods.

Literature reviews.

Evidence Synthesis, including systematic review and systematic mapping of research, critical appraisal of research and options for data synthesis.

Students will be encouraged to develop effective learning skills including: production of a honours project proposal; communication skills; and time management.

Assessment Strategy

Threshold, Grade D- to D+. Able to perform the specified analyses within the tasks set. Relevant results included but may not be well summarised or presented. Some literature used to place the assessment in context and provide a rationale but may be incomplete and include irrelevant material. Appropriate statistical methods used but some errors in application. Discussion shows some, but incomplete recognition of limitations of the research. Honours project research objectives stated but may be imprecise. Literature review contains appropriate materials, but synthesis limited. Methods largely reproducible, but may be vague in places and not fully address the research objectives. Structure follows conventions but within section structure lacks order. Substantial changes may need to be made to the proposal before the honours project research can begin.

Good, Grade C- to B+. Able to relate the analysis to the questions being asked within the tasks set. Good summary of results with some minor imperfections in presentation. Appropriate statistical methods used and applied with only minor errors. Good discussion recognising any limitations of the research. Clear statement of honours project research objectives. Good survey of the available literature with appropriate synthesis, providing context and rationale. Methods proposed are clear, reproducible and fully address the research objectives. Good structure. Minor changes may need to be made to the research before honours project research can begin.

Excellent, Grade A- and above. Able to relate the analysis to the question being asked, including a demonstration of the understanding of the underlying assumptions. Results are presented to a high standard. Excellent use of appropriate statistical methods. Excellent discussion recognising limitations of the research and proposing alternative approaches for the future. Clear statement of coherent honours project research objectives. Excellent literature review providing a synthesis, context and rationale for the research. Methods proposed are clear, reproducible and fully address the research objectives. Structure near flawless. Only very minor changes may be required before the honours project research can begin.

Learning Outcomes

• Be able to complete a risk assessment

• Be able to describe and communicate research findings

• Be able to effectively carry out field methods and data collection

• Be able to generate appropriate research hypotheses / research objectives

• Be able to select and apply appropriate methods for the analysis of data

• Be able to use a desktop Geographical Information System (ArcGIS ) to display and manipulate different forms of geospatial data

• Understand the ethical implications of their proposed research