Module Introduction

Last modified: 2023-03-20

Welcome

Welcome to Geocomputation. This module will introduce you both to the principles of spatial analysis as well as provide you with a comprehensive introduction to the use of programming. Over the next ten weeks, you will learn about the theory, methods and tools of spatial analysis through relevant case studies. We will start by using QGIS before moving to the R programming language. You will learn how to find, manage and clean spatial, demographic and socioeconomic datasets, and then analyse them using core spatial and statistical analysis techniques.

Moodle

Moodle is the central point of contact for GEOG0030 and it is where all important information will be communicated such as key module and assessment information. This workbook contains links to all reading material as well as the content of all computer tutorials

Module overview

The topics covered over the next ten weeks are:

Week	Section	Topic
1	Foundational Concepts	Geocomputation: An Introduction
2	Foundational Concepts	GIScience and GIS software
3	Foundational Concepts	Cartography and Visualisation
4	Foundational Concepts	Programming for Data Analysis
5	Foundational Concepts	Programming for Spatial Analysis
	Reading week	Reading week
6	Core Spatial Analysis	Analysing Spatial Patterns I: Geometric Operations and Spatial Queries
7	Core Spatial Analysis	Analysing Spatial Patterns II: Spatial Autocorrelation
8	Core Spatial Analysis	Analysing Spatial Patterns III: Point Pattern Analysis
9	Advanced Spatial Analysis	Rasters, Zonal Statistics and Interpolation
10	Advanced Spatial Analysis	Transport Network Analysis

Troubleshooting

Spatial analysis can yield fascinating insights into geographical relationships, albeit at times it can be challenging, particularly when we combine this with learning how to program at the same time. You will most likely encounter many error messages, experience software crashes, and spend hours to identify bugs in your code. However, the rewards of learning how to programmatically solve complex spatial problems will be very much worth it in the end.

If you need specific assistance with this course please:

Ask a question at the end of a lecture or during the computer practical.
Attend the Department’s Coding Therapy sessions that are run on a weekly basis.
Check the Moodle assessment tab for queries relating to this module’s assessment.

If after pursuing all these avenues you still need help, you can book into our office hours. You can use an office hour to discuss a geographical concept in relation to the material, assessment or for any personal matters relevant to the completion of the module.

Acknowledgements

This year’s workbook is updated and compiled using:

The GEOG0030: Geocomputation 2021-2021 workbook as created and compiled by Dr Jo Wilkin.
The GEOG0030: Geocomputation 2021-2022 workbook.

The datasets used in this workbook contain:

Crime data obtained from data.police.uk (Open Government Licence)

GEOG0030: Geocomputation