Understanding GIS
This section provides links to resources that define the features of GIS. They show how data can be linked dynamically to maps, how the data can be selected for presentation and how it can be both presented and processed in different ways.
This site from the Ordance Survey provides an introduction to most aspects of GIS. The basics are set out in Section 1 'Getting to Grips with GIS'. Other sections would be useful for reference to further develop one's knowledge and understanding of GIS.
This website from the RGS-IBG introduces GIS by providing information about each aspect of a system. It explains how different types of data from different sources can be brought together and how this data can be represented on maps then used to resolve spatial problems.
This resource from the Ordnance Survey offers a simple and visual introduction to GIS for students, though teachers, especially those without specialist geographical knowledge, could also use it as a starting point. The section in 'What is GIS' presents key ideas simply, followed by an example of how the police could use GIS to help prevent the theft of mobile phones. Further illustrations of GIS use are provided in the section on 'GIS Reality', such as locating wind turbines, delivering goods from a supermarket and in farming.
ESRI is the company that produces ArcView and other GIS software, both for different types of commercial use and for education. This part of the ESRI website provides you with an introduction and goes through three ways in which GIS can be viewed.
What is GIS? (PowerPoint Presentation)
The presentation gives an overview of the history, components, features and some sample applications of mapping with GIS. The samples are US-based, but have obvious UK parallels. Accompanying notes give additional commentary on each slide.
This resource is part of an extensive resource created by King Edward VI Five Ways School. It shows how one school is making use of GIS with a range of students. Samples of the students’ work are provided.
The basic features of a GIS are listed on this one-side sheet that is taken from a larger resource. These features are: a base map: data: layers: quantitative map displays: data processing and map tools.
The OS produce a magazine about mapping that is available online. This provides a wealth of articles on software, teaching ideas and how to access map and data resources. Some editions have focused on using GIS in schools. Editions dating back to 2001 can be downloaded.
