2. General information
The course is part of the internet based programme ‘GIS and Earth Observation for Environmental modeling and Natural resource management’ (iGEON). The course is compulsory for the double degree: Master of Science in Geographical Information Science and Earth Observation, University of Twente, Faculty ITC, the Netherlands and Master of Science in Geographical Information Science of Lund University, Sweden. The course is also given as a single subject course. The language of instruction is English. The course is fully based on distance learning, with all material distributed over the Internet. It is flexible in the sense that students can study full time (100%), half time (50%), or with a 25% study tempo.
The course is also part of the main field of study in Physical Geography and Ecosystems Science at the Faculty of Science. The course is an elective course on advanced level for a Master’s degree in Geographical Information Science, Faculty of Science, Lund University, Sweden.
3. Learning outcomes
The aim of the course is that students, after having successfully completed the course, should have acquired the following knowledge, understanding and skills:
Knowledge and understanding
After the course the student is expected to be able to:
- thoroughly interpret and discuss geographical data from a statistical perspective,
- understand correlation theory and regression analysis,
- explain hypothesis testing for geographical data,
- synoptically describe error propagation in a geographical analysis,
- understand spatial autocorrelation,
- exemplify uses of regional variable theory.
Proficiency and skills
After the course the student is expected to be able to:
- use and explain statistical measures,
- independently implement analyses and interpret results from correlation and regression analyses,
- understand and apply specific spatial methods on applicable data,
- plan and conduct a hypothesis test,
- apply a geo-statistical analysis by utilization of regional variable theory.
Attitude and ability to appraise
After the course the student is expected to be able to:
- independently act on both spatial and normal statistical methods and measures,
- evaluate the credibility in analysis conducted with various statistical methods.
4. Course contents
The course consists of the following parts:
- Descriptive statistics
- Quantities and populations
- Correlation analysis
- Linear regression
- Multiple regression analysis and trend surfaces
- Spatial regression
- Spatial distributions and cluster
- Hypothesis testing
- Regionalized variable theory
- Error propagation
5. Teaching and assessment
Teaching consists of lectures, practical and theoretical exercises and seminars. Exercises and seminars are compulsory.
Examination is in the form of a written exam, and through approved individual exercises.
6. Grades
Students are graded for the course according to the following levels: High Pass (distinction), Passed, and Failed.
In order to pass the course the student is required to have passed the exam, all compulsory exercises, and to have participated in all compulsory course elements.
The final grade for the course is determined by the result of the written exam.
7. Entrance qualifications
The following are required for admission to the course: Basic admission requirements of Lund University, and at least 1.5 years full time studies at university level, including iGEON introductory courses in GIS, remote sensing and natural resource management or comparable courses.
8. Literature
According to a list established by the department, available at least five weeks before the start of the course.