GG7404 Module Descriptor

MODULE CODE: GG7404 LEVEL: 7 CREDITS: 30

TITLE: Spatial data and the WWW

PRE-REQUISITES:

CO-REQUISITES: None

MODULE SUMMARY (INDICATIVE)

This module is concerned with how geospatial data is modelled, managed and manipulated within database
systems, and how the data stored in spatial databases can be disseminated across the Internet. The
technologies that support the dissemination and visualisation of geographical data over the Internet are
explained and students gain practical experience of designing and implementing spatial relational
databases and of developing Web mapping applications that utilise data stored within Web-enabled
databases. Alternative software and database development approaches will be explored, and programming
culture and resources explained.

AIMS (DEFINITIVE)
To develop a theoretical and practical understanding of geospatial data management using spatial
relational databases and geographical information systems.
To understand how spatial data can be disseminated across the Internet and to be able to
implement a web mapping service.
Develop an appreciation of the importance of data and metadata standards in facilitating
interoperability

LEARNING OUTCOMES (DEFINITIVE)

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

Be familiar with the importance and role of databases in managing spatial data.
Understand database, software, and system architectures and critically evaluate their design.
Be able to develop a Web-based mapping application to a spatial relational database from
conceptual design through to physical implementation.
Explain the importance of standards in respect of metadata, coding and the WWW.
Assess the benefits and limitations of consuming and disseminating spatial data through the WWW.

CURRICULUM CONTENT (INDICATIVE)

Data, database and system architectures, with a specific focus upon the relational model and the
WWW.
Designing data models using entity-relationship modelling.
Structured Query Language (SQL) and it's spatial extensions.
Types of geographical data on the Internet.
The technology and standards that underlie the dissemination of spatial data across WWW.
Designing and implementing Web-based mapping and application programming interfaces onto
spatial databases.
TEACHING AND LEARNING STRATEGY (INDICATIVE)1
The module comprises 21 x 2 hour lecture sessions and 21 x 2 hour practical classes. Lectures are supported
by written materials, guided reading, and links to online materials made available through StudySpace. The
practical sessions are linked with the lectures. Students will work on both individual and group projects.
Students are required to extend their reading to academic journals, conference proceedings, books and
Internet publications.
1
Delivered in both on-site and distance learning (DL) modes. In DL mode written course units and recorded
lectures replace on-site lectures, self-taught practicals replace computer lab sessions and video-streaming
replaces guest lectures.

BREAKDOWN OF TEACHING AND LEARNING HOURS

DEFINITIVE KIS CATEGORY INDICATIVE DESCRIPTION HOURS

Scheduled learning and teaching Lectures (42) 84
Practicals (42)
Guided independent study 216
Study abroad / placement
Total 300
(number of credits x 10)

ASSESSMENT STRATEGY (INDICATIVE)

Summative assessment is through: a database project (40%); a Geoweb implementation (40%); and
essay/report (20%).

A number of formative assessments will be undertaken including, practical exercises and tutor-led question
and answer sessions. These will provide periodic feedback to students enabling them to monitor their
progress and identify strengths and weaknesses. Tutors will provide regular guidance how to develop
students strengths and to improve performance to overcome weaknesses.

MAPPING OF LEARNING OUTCOMES TO ASSESSMENT STRATEGY (INDICATIVE)

LEARNING OUTCOME ASSESSMENT STRATEGY

On completion of the module, students will be
able to:
1) Be familiar with the importance and role of Database project, essay/report
databases in managing spatial data

2) Understand database, code and system Database project, essay/report, geoweb

architectures, and critically evaluate implementation
alternative models.
3) Be able to develop a spatial relational Database project, geoweb implementation
database and Web-based mapping application
from conceptual design through to physical
implementation.
4) Assess the benefits and limitations of Database project, essay/report, geoweb
consuming and disseminating spatial data implementation
through the WWW.
5) Explain the importance of standards in Database project, essay/report, geoweb
respect of metadata, coding and the WWW. implementation
BREAKDOWN OF MAJOR CATEGORIES OF ASSESSMENT

DEFINITIVE KIS CATEGORY INDICATIVE DESCRIPTION PERCENTAGE

Written Exam
Practical Exam
Coursework Essay/Report 100%
Database project
Geoweb implementation
Total 100%

ACHIEVING A PASS
It IS a requirement that the major category of assessment is passed in order to achieve an overall pass for
the module

BIBLIOGRAPHY (INDICATIVE):

Core Text(s):
Connolly T, and Begg C (2007). Database Solutions. (2nd ed). Harlow: Pearson Education Ltd.

Recommended Reading:
Dincer A. and Uraz B. (2013). Google Maps API Cookbook. Packt Publishing.
Fu, P and Sun, J (2010). Web GIS: Principles and Applications. Redlands, CA: ESRI Press.
Kraak, M-J And Brown, A (eds.) (2001). Web Cartography: Developments and Prospects. London: Taylor and
Francis.
Obe R. O. and Hsu L. S. (2013). PostGIS in Action. (2nd ed). Manning. Stanford, Connecticut.
Rigau P., Scholl M. and Voisard A. (2002). Spatial Databases with application to GIS. San Francisco: Morgan
Kaufmann Publishers.
Scharl A. and Tochtermann K. (eds.) (2007). The Geospatial Web How Geobrowsers, Social Software and the
Web 2.0 are Shaping the Network Society. Series: Advanced Information and Knowledge Processing.
London: Springer.
Sumner V., Turner C. and Svennerberg G. (2010). Beginning Google Maps API 3. (2nd ed). Dordrecht:
Springer.

Journals:
The Cartographic Journal; Cartographic; Journal of Maps; International Journal of Geographic Information
Science; Transactions in GIS; IEEE Transactions on Visualisation and Computer Graphics; and Information
Visualisation