This tutorial topic provides a definition of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with links to more in-depth information.
GIS can be thought of as the high-tech equivalent of a conventional paper map. Computer database systems capable of holding and using data describing places on the earth's surface make up a GIS. GIS provides the facility of analyzing things that exist and events that happen on earth.
Definition
A more formal definition taken from the U.S. Census Website summarizes GIS as:
An information system that is designed to work with data referenced by spatial or geographic coordinates. In other words, a GIS is both a database system with specific capabilities for spatially-referenced data, as well as a set of operations for working [analysis] with the data.
(Star and Estes, 1990)
Online ReferencesIf you would like a more detailed description of GIS, visit the following sites:
Library References
There are also several reference items available in the SpatialData at UAS office located in the Egan Library.
Instruction
- Check the ESRI Website for Training, Workshop, and Events near you.
- Check the UAS Course Schedule for a listing of GIS classes available this semester at the UAS Juneau Campus.
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