Map Algebra
Aim
To understand the basic tools for spatial analysis and learn how to model environmental processes containing explicit spatial interactions.
Audience
Persons who wish to understand how to retrieve data in a GIS and carry out spatial analysis for a wide range of purposes.
Description
The course gives an introduction to the theory and practice of basic operations in geo-algebra appplied in Geographical Information Systems. The course can be seen as an introduction to the course 'An introduction to Dynamic Modelling', since the operations used here are the building blocks of temporal Dynamic Models. The course covers theory and application of operations applied to entities (points, lines, polygons) and discretized fields (pixels). Basic operations explained are point/local operations, neighbourhood operations such as windowing and area operations. Special attention is given to geomorphological operations for DEM and catchment analysis. Examples are given of simple static, spatial Cartographic Models. Students starting this course should have some basic background in geography and spatial reasoning. The course consists of 1) theory and 2) practical exercises. The theory is provided in the book Burrough, P.A., and McDonnel, 1998, Principles of Geographical Information Systems, Oxford University Press. The practical part consists of practical exercises with interactive teaching material. The exercises use the PCRaster Python software.
Tutors
Dr. Derek Karssenberg, Utrecht University. Environmental modelling specialist.
Drs. Kor de Jong, Utrecht University. Developer of the PCRaster package.
Dr. Oliver Schmitz, Utrecht University. Developer of the PCRaster package.
Course Material not included in the subscription fee
Burrough, P.A., and McDonnel, 1998, Principles of Geographical Information Systems, Oxford University Press. Chapters 7 and 8, dealing with the analysis of discrete entities and continuous fields respectively, are compulsory. Chapters 1-4 from the book are recommended.