Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

Falguni Mukherjee (Author)

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Paperback ~~$59.00~~ $53.10 Hardback ~~$130.00~~ $117.00

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Description

Geographic information systems (GIS) is a rapidly advancing field that has become thoroughly integrated into our society and inseparable from our daily lives. Today, GIS is used by professionals in many different disciplines and fields, such as public health, disaster management, law enforcement, environmental management, resource allocation, forestry, geology, and more. In this full-color textbook, author Falguni Mukherjee equips students with GIS and spatial thinking skills applicable to this wide range of disciplines and fields, preparing them for success in countless professions.
This comprehensive, grounded introduction to the basics of geographic information systems and science is written in a clear and accessible style, making the complex and sophisticated field of GIS and spatial thinking comprehensible for beginners. Up-to-date with current GIS trends and incorporating exercises using a number of GIS software, Mukherjee covers a wide array of topics, including the history of GIS, geospatial data models and analysis, projections and coordinate systems, database management systems, cartography, ethics in GIS, GIS project management principles, GIS and society, and digital transformation.
Features of this exciting, brand-new text include:
Chapter opening learning objectives to guide students’ course goalsHelpful study aids such as key terms—bolded in the text and compiled both at the end of each chapter and in a comprehensive glossaryEnd-of-chapter questions and activities utilizing GIS software to promote active learning and build useful skillsA stunning full-color art program, with detailed maps, figures, tables, and photos, to engage students as visual learners

Acknowledgments
Chapter 1: What is GIS?
Learning Objectives
Why GIS?
What is GIS?
Components of a GIS
Location Information
A GIS Integrates Information
Processes Performed by a GIS
History of GIS
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 2: Projections and Coordinate Systems
Learning Objectives
Location Information
Cartography and Maps
Shape of the Earth
Map Projections
Coordinate Systems
Universal Transverse Mercator Coordinate System
The Military Grid Coordinate System
United States National Grid
State Plane Coordinate System
Other Systems
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 3: GIS Spatial Data Models
Learning Objectives
Representing Real World Features
Vector Data Model
Vector Data Model Structures
Raster Data Model
Comparing the Two Spatial Data Models
File Formats
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 4: Attribute Data
Learning Objectives
Representing Aspatial Data and Information
Database Management System
RDBMS and GIS
Types of Data
Functions in an Attribute Table
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 5: Geospatial Data
Learning Objectives
Geospatial Data
Finding Geospatial Data
Field Methods and Geospatial Data Creation
Global Positioning System (GPS)
Remote Sensing Data Collection
Geocoding
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 6: GIS and Cartography
Learning Objectives
Why Cartography?
Cartographic Elements of a Map
GIS Maps
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 7: GIS Softwares
Learning Objectives
GIS Softwares
ArcGIS
QGIS
GRASS GIS
gvSIG Desktop
Software Selection
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 8: GIS and Society
Learning Objectives
GIS and Society – Why?
GIS and Organization – Principles of GIS Project Management
GIS and Society
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 9: GIS – Possibilities and the Future
Learning Objectives
The World of GIS
What Can You Do with a GIS Degree?
What Lies Ahead?
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
Chapter 10: Geospatial Data Analysis
Learning Objectives
Geospatial Analysis – What and Why?
Retrieving Data
Spatial Analysis Using Vector Data
Spatial Analysis Using Raster Data
Questions and Activities
Key Terms
References
About the Author
Series Page
Glossary

Product details

Published	Jan 03 2025
Format	Paperback
Edition	1st
Extent	268
ISBN	9781538152010
Imprint	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Illustrations	144 Color Illustrations, 4 Color Photos, 17 Tables, 4 Textboxes
Dimensions	10 x 7 inches
Publisher	Bloomsbury Publishing

Author

Falguni Mukherjee

In my work as a geographer, educator, and GIS professional supporting many campuses, worldwide, I have used and taught with many GIS textbooks over the years and am always looking for something new and innovative. I found Dr Falguni Mukherjee's new Introduction to Geographic Information Systems book to be refreshing and approachable, and I trust it will be very useful for many instructors and students. I especially found Dr Mukherjee's questions and activities at the end of each chapter to be thought-provoking and a welcome addition over other books; and the book's extensive reference lists illustrate Dr Mukherjee's dedication and research in the subject. The book covers the theory and application of GIS with just the right tone-understandable, yet rigorous, and I recommend it for those teaching and studying GIS and GIScience.

Joseph J. Kerski, Education Manager, Geographer, Esri
This introductory GIS text offers a comprehensive and timely exploration of geospatial technology, presenting practical examples and relevant real-world applications. The author's matter-of-fact approach distills complex GIS concepts into accessible content for undergraduates and aspiring GIS professionals, while fostering a deeper understanding of spatial analysis. It will indeed serve as a valuable resource that reflects current trends in GIS education and practice.

Greg Rybarczyk, University of Michigan-Flint
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems by Dr. Falguni Mukherjee is a credible entry level book that not only covers basic theoretical concepts but also includes numerous practical examples. The illustrations and mapping examples are easy to understand and engaging. The author's method of explaining concepts from a Geographic Information System (GIS) and Geographic Information Science (GIScience) perspective is commendable. In my 25+ years of GIScience career, I have seen very few Introductions to GIS books covering basics of GIS and Society, and GIS Project Management. I am confident that readers would highly benefit from such topics which are hard to find in other GIS books.

Rama Mohapatra, Minnessota State University, Mankato