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Geography Courses
Physical Geography
Physical Geography is the study of the processes and
interrelationships
involved in the development of the physical environment, and the
spatial/temporal distribution of phenomena found therein. This
sub-discipline of
Geography focuses on the functional interactions between the
atmosphere,
hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere. In this course, you will learn
how to
explain the interdependencies and consequences of energy and material
flows as
they influence the natural environment, and the spatial distribution of
temperature, pressure, precipitation, severe weather, climate,
landforms and
biotic communities.
Weather & Climate
Weather & Climate is a broad based course that explains the spatial distribution of the Earth's dynamic systems such as atmosphere, weather, and climate. Attention is given to investigating the interactions between humans and this environment in the areas of global warming, acid deposition, El Nino/Southern Oscillation, natural disasters, ozone depletion, monsoon geography, and their impacts to global hydrologic cycles, soils and terrestrial biomes.
Cultural Geography
Cultural Geography is the study of people and places and the
interactions
between humans and their environment. As a sub-discipline of Geography,
the
field studies spatial patterns of population, migration, cultural
identity,
economic development, agriculture, politics, urbanization, nature and
technology. Emphasis is given to examining the quality and
diversity of life, spatial patterns of cultural geographies, global
interconnectedness and critical thinking
about the future of our world. As an introductory course, no previous
experience
with geographic content is required.
World Regional Geography
In the face of rapid
globalization, places have become increasingly interdependent, and we
are facing
new and complex challenges that are reshaping local and regional
geographies. As
an introductory level course, we will explore the interactions between
the
physical environment and the cultural systems that shape world regional
areas.
Focus will be given to exploring the similarities and differences that
face
these regions in areas such as population growth, economics,
environment,
political systems, and cultural ideology. The course also will cover
the basics
in reading and interpreting information presented on maps.
Map Use, Analysis & Interpretation
Maps have become the cornerstone for applications in numerous
disciplines not
limited to geography, geology, forestry, biology, ecology and
engineering. Many
major private corporations and governmental units produce mapping
products
and/or use maps to accomplish their goals and objectives. As an
introductory level course, we will explore a wide variety of maps,
their various formats, the principles governing mapping systems and
mapping
techniques. A series of "hands-on" activities will be assigned
throughout the course to allow you to apply the knowledge you learn in
the
classroom. Emphasis is placed on reading, analyzing and interpreting
information presented on maps.
Principles of Geographic Information Science (GIS)
The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) has become widespread
throughout both
government and the private industry for researching and analyzing
spatial
relationships. This course will examine the history, development, major
advantages, limitations and primary functions of a GIS. Emphasis is
placed on
learning geographic concepts and GIS principles, using ESRI's ArcGIS
9.0
software. Students will
learn how to use a GIS to investigate a variety of human and
environmental
issues, and will complete an independent project . The
course establishes a sound working knowledge of
GIS and prepares students for Advanced GIS coursework.
Cartography
This courses allows students to investigate the history, uses and
construction of
maps. Emphasis is given to reading, interpreting and critically
evaluating the
information presented on maps, the collection and statistical
manipulation of
data sets, and the design and drafting of a wide variety of thematic
maps and
graphs. Students will learn the concepts and techniques of cartography
through a
series of practical map exercises, using a GIS.
Data Acquisition & Database Management in GIS
This course explores a variety of topics related to spatial
databases, data
acquisition, conversion, management and documentation. Emphasis will be
given throughout the course to developing sound data
development and manipulation practices. Appropriate use of spatial data
and cartographic quality, as introduced
in the introductory course, is taken to a level of greater
responsibility and
complexity.
Modeling Techniques in GIS
This course will build upon the foundation of concepts
learned in
previous GIS courses offered at Itasca Community College and introduce
a variety
of techniques for spatial/tabular data evaluation and analytical
modeling.
Students will develop a research proposal that utilizes the modeling
capabilities of a GIS based on a similar study as found in the
supporting
literature.
Remote Sensing & Image Interpretation
Remote sensing is a tool that is being used increasingly in a variety
of
disciplines such as geography, geology, forestry and environmental
science to
capture and evaluate the areal extents and spatial associations of
features
distributed on the Earth's surface. This course will provide an
overview of
current remote sensing systems and analytical techniques used to
interpret
satellite imagery and aerial photography. As a whole, the course
encompasses a
broad range of ideas from electromagnetic radiation, principles/use of
different
sensors, cameras, films, scanners, interpretation and land use mapping,
and the
integration of remotely sensed data within geographic information
systems.
Applications of remote sensing techniques will be investigated in
geography,
geology, meteorology, agriculture, forestry, urban and regional
planning.
GIS Internship
Students will be placed in a professional setting where they
may apply the
knowledge, skills and abilities they have acquired during the course of
their
education to assist in real world applications of GIS activity.
Students should
expect to spend approximately 45 hours per academic credit hour, and
usually
complete 135 hours (3 credits). In the past, interns have been placed
at the
Itasca County Land Department, MN Department of Natural Resources (Wildlife and State Parks
Divisions), the MN State Forest and Resource
Assessment Office and at the United States Forest Service Chippewa
National
Forest.
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